aris A. Ashkar is a native of Lebanon. He grew up in a rich, tradition-steeped artistic atmosphere in Sidon, learning macramé from the fishermen, pottery, tailoring and woodcarving from local craftsmen and drawing and design from his father. He has participated in exhibitions in Lebanon since childhood. Upon arriving in the United States in 1968, Faris has shown his works in craft fairs and exhibitions. His work has been displayed in numerous homes, offices, churches and businesses in the States and abroad. 

Since college, Faris has worked as an accountant, engineer, production planner in construction and remodeling, and in the food industry. He has participated in several seminars and given lectures on inter-cultural communications and the history of the Middle East, in general, and the history of Arabic Art—in particular, Arabic Calligraphy. He has given well-received lectures at several colleges, universities, churches, high schools and civic clubs. Faris has also attended several seminars on the Middle East as both a participant and as a lecturer.

An American citizen since 1977, his work with Arabic Calligraphy and the designs of many of his works often reflect the mixed Jewish-Christian-Moslem heritage of his native country. Faris has used several types of materials, Plexiglas as an example, in his work but favors the use of wood—mainly Native-American hardwoods such as walnut, birch, maple and oak.

Fretwork was originally crafted solely by hand using a coping saw, although most work is now done on an electrically operated scroll saw; however all Faris’s work is always done by hand, using only hand tools. Faris mostly crafts his own designs but he sometimes adapts other artist’s designs in his work. In addition, he also does custom work and also available for giving lectures and demonstrations on his fascinating craft.

Questions and comments are always welcome. Please feel free to e-mail or write him at any time.

 Faris A. Ashkar
144 Peterson Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37922

 E-mail: Faris@ashkars.com

 

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