Side Conversations is the first solo exhibition of Lebanese artist Carla Habib.
The series uses a bright color palette evocative of the artist’s childhood in the 90s and life in a digital era.

The 90s were well known for jewel tones and neon lights while the fashion industry at the time relied heavily on fluorescent colors and drew inspiration from the Pop Art era. Another important element of the decade was the shift in technology with the advent of the internet, cellphones, and computers; which caused a surge in digital art and ultimately social media.

The artist was inspired when she started asking herself a multitude of questions surrounding her use and interactions on social media platforms. Ranging from her relationships with her contacts and ‘friends’ all the way to how it impacts our mental health and how it affects our perceptions and standards of beauty. One important question raised is whether or not these platforms help liberate women or further objectify them. The subjects of the portraits are all close friends of the artist, people she felt comfortable enough to approach and capture in intimate moments.

The series came about at a women’s only Valentine’s Day dinner that Habib was invited to.
The photos she took of the people at that party were the start and set the tone for the whole project.