Minnie Tabet Tasso

Minnie Tabet Tasso (b. 1959) is a Lebanese artist who was born in Beirut. She is known for creating delightful sculptures that range from functional pieces to collectible, decorative items with an aesthetic aspect to them.

Tabet Tasso studied Architecture at École Spéciale d’Architecture in Paris, graduating in 1981. She then furthered her studies in the US, obtaining a BA in Photography from the Academy of Art, San Francisco.

Minnie Tabet Tasso has described how, despite deciding against a career in architecture, her passion for the subject inspired her to work with her hands. 

“I began experimenting with different media, initially making small paintings, but soon realised that this wasn’t my thing,” she said. “I then focused on ‘trompe l’œil’ and from there, moved into pottery, which I adored right from the very first moment.” 

Tabet Tasso honed her technique with the ceramist Nathalie Khayat in Beirut and other experts, including Masters of the craft based as far afield as Denmark and Italy.

Tabet Tasso has often talked about the immense enjoyment and high levels of satisfaction she experiences in her craft, whether she is building by hand or working at the wheel, as well as the therapeutic ‘calming’ benefits of working with clay.

Minnie Tabet Tasso’s work has evolved in shape and style over the years, reflecting Tabet Tasso’s vivid imagination, natural curiosity and hallmark desire to explore new ideas rather than stand still. However, her pieces retain key characteristics that include a harmonious feel and affinity with nature - a key source of inspiration. 

Tabet Tasso’s recent pieces, can be found mainly at Pik’d Gallery, Saifi, in Beirut, and at Mohammad Maktabi in Dubai, which include decorative vases and bowls, complete with detailed floral edging, showcasing delicately curled, textured leaves and petals, in pastel shades or contrasting, vibrant colours.