Aneesa Shami Zizzo: Textile Artist Embracing Arab Heritage

Aneesa Shami Zizzo, a Los Angeles-based artist and researcher, has a deep-rooted passion for textiles and fabrics, inspired by her grandmothers' quilting and crocheting skills. Growing up in Kansas with a Lebanese father and American mother, Zizzo's artistic journey began at a young age, driven by a desire to create from scratch.

Her artistic exploration led her to focus on fiber art at the Kansas City Art Institute, where she found a profound connection to the medium. Zizzo's textile works, crafted from industry waste, highlight the alarming issue of textile waste in the world.

While her art has always been influenced by personal memories and family, Zizzo recently started incorporating her Arab heritage into her work, aiming to embrace her roots and share them with her son. A transformative trip to Lebanon in 2017 further deepened her connection to her ancestry, inspiring pieces like 'Baba's Goldmine,' which pays homage to her Lebanese heritage.

As Zizzo prepares for a residency at the Arab American National Museum in Michigan, her artistic journey continues to evolve, blending her cultural heritage with her artistic expression.