Nouman Essa’s artistic journey began with a focus on “expressive realism”, where human forms became the central theme of his work. His early creations from 2008-2012 are marked by strong emotions, blending lines, colors, and empty spaces to convey a sense of raw energy. The human figure, with all its power and emotion, became a central force in shaping the identity of his art. However, the outbreak of the Syrian war in 2011 left a lasting impact on his creations, as chaos, anxiety, and a sense of instability began to take hold of his work during this period.

During the war, Nouman experimented with a variety of techniques, ranging from pencil and charcoal sketches to mixed-media pieces, constantly seeking new forms of expression that captured the tumultuous reality around him. His works from this time are characterized by harshness—in both texture and subject matter—with heavy strokes, uncertain shapes, and a restrained yet charged color palette. They mirror the artist’s inner conflict and his desire to transform the harshness of his surroundings.

As time progressed, Nouman’s art continued to evolve. Between 2013 and 2020, his work remained a reflection of his search for new forms of artistic expression. He began incorporating unconventional elements such as lamps, strings, cement, and iron into his pieces, aiming to explore the human condition more deeply. This period saw a maturation in his style, with a focus on existential themes surrounding identity, existence, and the human struggle.

Post-2020, amidst global changes, Nouman’s work took a more introspective turn. His pieces became more visually condensed, offering a sophisticated blend of minimalism and depth. The interplay between his subjects and techniques—whether working with charcoal, acrylics, or pencil—speaks to his ongoing pursuit of artistic discovery.

Nouman Essa’s art has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions across Lebanon, Kuwait, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, London, and the United States. His work remains a constant exploration of life’s most profound questions, as he seeks to understand humanity’s place in an ever-changing world.