Gaming franchise lights the way to artistic expression

Nabidad Khan, Features Writer

Dubai-based Lebanese interior designer and artist Pierre Abboud came up with a unique ‘Blizzard Lanterns’ idea, based on some of the popular characters from the Blizzard franchise. One of the best artists in the Middle East, his work has received a warm welcome and has inspired his fans in the United Arab Emirates. 

Pierre Abboud introduced his artistic project ‘Blizzard Lanterns’ during the Holy month of Ramadan. The art installations featured six exclusive lanterns that represent Blizzard Entertainment’s blockbuster franchises. Pierre’s fulfillment always stems from his passion for art and the diversity of medium he uses. These range from sculptures and paintings to installations and interior design.

In an interview with Gulf Today, he talks about his passion and drive to create art.

Here is what he said:

Would you like to share the idea behind the ‘Blizzard Lanterns’ project?

This project is truly unique. The work of art features six exclusive lanterns that represent six of Blizzard Entertainment’s key franchises including World of Warcraft, Hearthstone, Overwatch, StarCraft, Diablo, and the multi-franchise Heroes of the Storm.  Throughout my career as an artist, I took inspiration from many places. I never imagined that gaming would inspire me to create such a cultural crossover. When you look at Blizzard games, you will see that every title has its own identity and magic. Every character has a strong message to deliver. The stories that these titles bring forth really connected with me — stories of struggles, finding a place to belong to and doing what is right. Add to that the stunning designs, the deeply built universe, and the lore.... All this inspired me to build a physical bridge to the Middle Eastern culture in the form of lanterns.

Is ‘Blizzard Lanterns’ your first gaming-inspired project?

Yes, it is my first gaming project, but probably not my last. I enjoyed discovering the wider world of Blizzard characters, learning more about the philosophy of each game, and diving deeper into this imaginary world, yet very real, in its own way.

'Heroes of the storm.'

Tell us something about your passion for art?

I see art in everything I do, in our everyday lives, in creation, in destruction, in happiness and sadness. There is not a moment that I do not think of a new artwork or a project. Art is something that is born in your mind and imagination at first, it then reaches its maturity as you play with it in the planning process. I believe that every creation has its beauty and its purpose, concept. The most important part for me is to see a deeper meaning in what I do. I am very passionate about sustainability, and you can see that by looking at my earlier projects. I worked closely with Masdar City earlier this year on creating the world’s largest mosaic made from recycled materials that made its way into the Guinness World Records. I enjoyed working on this project and it was one of the most rewarding experiences as it supported the sustainability cause, something I find close to my heart. I also enjoy discovering new forms of art and finding my inspiration within new fields, such as gaming.

Have you had formal training in the field? What inspires you?

Different things inspire me. When it comes to different projects and different types of work, I get inspiration that comes with what I do.

In Murals, space becomes my hero, and the painting can radically alter the sensation of spatial proportions creating a three-dimensional and illusionistic feeling.

In Exhibitions & Events, my focus turns around designing innovative, attractive, and functional spaces and installations that appeal to the right target audience and leave the desired impact. In Interior Design, my work revolves around understanding and capturing the psychology, mood, and emotional needs of the client, conceiving an interior that evokes positive feelings and subtle emotional signals. Painting and Sculpting are my ode to love and feelings and a privileged time where I dive into myself and yield to the free expression of what cannot be said in words. In every piece of art, there is a flirt between light and shadow that became a cornerstone and signature of my work. 

What kind of material do you use when you make sculptures?

I do not have limitations and I use a mix of different materials when it comes to creating sculptures. For my Blizzard lanterns, I used a mix of metal, wood, glass and plywood.

Would you like to share something about your future projects?

I am always working on something. I am inspired by using recycled material or trash art.  I believe there should be no waste out there and everything can be put to better use because there is beauty in everything that surrounds us.