Latest Activities Report - Dar Zefta Foundation (2021–2025)

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Since 2021, Dar Zefta Foundation has developed a place-based cultural and socio-economic model in South Lebanon, operating at the intersection of artistic production, community engagement, and local economic development. Through a phased approach combining research, infrastructure development, and program implementation, the foundation works to position Zefta village as a site of cultural creation and exchange. This work has been carried out within a challenging context marked by ongoing conflict and structural constraints, resulting in gradual yet sustained and measurable progress in the village.

La Route des Arts addressed structural gaps in visibility and connectivity among artists in South Lebanon.

Key Outputs:

• 18 artists engaged across multiple southern locations (44% women) 
• 2-year research and mapping process (studio visits, fieldwork, community engagement) 
• 1 curated multi-site exhibition and cultural route 
• 3 artists transitioned into professional careers 
• 1 contemporary gallery established in South Lebanon 

Impact:

• Formation of the first structured artist network in the South 
• Increased national visibility through media and cultural platforms 
• Activation of cultural tourism and regional artistic circulation

 Zefta Arthouse was established as a permanent cultural platform addressing the absence of infrastructure outside Beirut.

Key Outputs:

• 1000 m² cultural facility + 5,000 m² outdoor space activated 
• First permanent contemporary art exhibition (“Shared Presence”) featuring 24 artists and 80+ artworks, ensuring continuous public access 

] cultural destination

• Over 80 artworks permanently exhibited in South Lebanon, creating sustained cultural awareness and long-term public access to contemporary art 
• Establishment of the first permanent cultural platform in the region 
• Continuous artistic production, exhibition, and engagement 
• Network of 50+ artists, curators, and cultural actors engaged 

 The Women & Youth Leading Development (WYLD) program was developed as a large-scale cultural and social recovery initiative. 

Planned Outputs & KPIs:

• Public panel discussions 
• 5 schools engaged / 100 students reached 
• 80 women trained and equipped for income generation 
• 40–50 youth engaged in storytelling and cinema 

Projected Impact:

• 200+ direct beneficiaries 
• Strengthened women-led livelihoods and creative skills 
• Enhanced youth participation and cultural expression 

Due to the current conflict context, implementation has been postponed; however, the program remains fully designed and ready for activation, forming a key component of the foundation’s next phase.