Rami Kadi’s “Highway to Heaven” Brings Couture to the Art World

Emma Hodgson   |   24-01-2025

Rami Kadi, a name synonymous with boundary-pushing couture, has ventured boldly into the world of fine art with his debut collection, Highway to Heaven

Showcased at the prestigious Belvedere Art Space in Beirut, this extraordinary unveiling was nothing short of a revelation. It marked a significant evolution for Kadi, a designer celebrated for his intricate craftsmanship and daring imagination.

Highway to Heaven is a kaleidoscopic journey—an immersive celebration of colour, emotion, and innovation. The collection unveiled on 24 January 2025, captures a deeply personal narrative that seamlessly merges the worlds of fantasy and craftsmanship. It offers a portal into Kadi’s psyche, shaped during a turbulent period of conflict when fashion could no longer serve as his primary outlet for creative expression. This pivotal moment birthed his first foray into art, a medium through which he channelled his passion, pain, and ultimately, hope.

The two-day launch event was a masterclass in curating an unforgettable experience. It commenced with an exclusive preview dinner on 23 January, attended by a handpicked guest list of 30 esteemed press members, art curators, and collectors. The setting—curated in collaboration with Mon Chef—was as meticulously detailed as Kadi’s work itself. A sumptuous seven-course menu reflected the vibrant palette and celestial inspiration of the collection, offering an intimate glimpse into a world where imagination knows no bounds.

The public unveiling transformed the Belvedere Art Space into a celestial haven. Kadi’s pieces, imbued with the fantastical beauty of rainbows, waterfalls, and shimmering light, captivated viewers. This was more than an exhibition; it was an emotional journey shaped by the artist’s signature techniques. Swarovski crystals, French knots, raffia threads, and glass beads adorned the works, creating a textural and visual symphony. In a world increasingly dominated by digital replication, Kadi’s insistence on preserving the art of embroidery felt both timely and timeless.

Highway to Heaven is an ode to imperfections, a celebration of the human touch in all its raw beauty. The collection’s radiance and intricacy reflect Kadi’s commitment to innovation while honouring the traditions that have long defined his career. His transition from fashion to art is less a departure and more an evolution—a reimagining of what it means to create in an era where boundaries between disciplines are dissolving.

In Kadi’s own words, Highway to Heaven is his most personal work to date. “This collection became my escape during the difficult times of the war, when I couldn’t express myself through fashion,” he shared. “It channels my emotions and imagination into a world where I could express myself freely, happily, away from obligations and expectations.” This authenticity resonates deeply, elevating the collection beyond mere aesthetics into the realm of profound emotional connection.

As the pieces remain on display at Belvedere Art Space, collectors and enthusiasts have a rare opportunity to experience the collection in person. True to its ethos of intimacy and exclusivity, the works are not available online, reinforcing their status as singular, unrepeatable creations.

Rami Kadi’s Highway to Heaven stands as a testament to the power of creativity to transcend mediums, offering a vibrant vision of hope and resilience. It is a bold reminder that, even in times of darkness, art can illuminate new pathways and inspire us to dream without limits.

rami-kadi.com

TAGS