Three licks of curling flame indicate a running figure a blur of energy, strength, and speed. The simple logo of the Beirut Marathon Association served as the inspiration behind close to 60 artworks in October, when the organization organized The Peace We Run For, an exhibition of sculptures based on the design. Among the pieces dreamt up by 29 artists and designers and 29 local schools is MOTION, an architectural work by Lebanese designer Dori Hitti that emphasizes both speed and force.
The three curving central lines that denote the vertical form of a running figure, made up of a tilted head, pumping arms and extended legs a sprinter on the home stretch is offset in Hittis design by a series of horizontal lines, suggesting a blur of speed or the movement of displaced air. Through the work, displayed in Downtown Beirut overlooking the yachts moored in Zaitunay Bay, Hitti evokes dynamism and determination. The figure, caught mid-stride, appears airborne, as though defying gravity through willpower alone. The designer chose to give the metal sculpture a white finish to symbolize peace, he explains, the peace of mind of a runner who never looks back.