Reflections: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Villain Collection

Jean-Paul and Fairouz Villain are collectors whose journey has been shaped by a continuous openness to discovery. Their approach to collecting has never followed a fixed path; rather, it has evolved organically, informed by their lived experiences, their environment and their sustained engagement with culture.

Prior to settling in Abu Dhabi, they formed a shared collection focused on 18th-century French furniture and 16th-century painting. Their move to the region marked a pivotal moment, prompting a gradual shift toward the Middle East, guided by Fairouz Villain’s cultural knowledge and a growing interest in the region’s artistic narratives.

The Villain Collection took its current direction approximately twenty years ago, with a focus on modern art from Syria and Lebanon, later complemented by early works from the local scene, including a seminal acquisition by Hassan Sharif. As the regional art landscape evolved, the collection expanded to embrace contemporary practices, reflecting a sustained curiosity for emerging artistic languages and critical perspectives.

Beyond collecting, Fairouz Villain has played an active role in Abu Dhabi’s cultural life. She was instrumental in introducing classical music to the city and was the founding force behind the Friends of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. In recognition of her sustained commitment to culture and the arts, she has been awarded the titles of Knight of the Legion of Honour and Knight of Arts and Letters. Jean-Paul Villain has likewise been recognised for his cultural engagement and contribution to the arts. He has been named an Officer of the Legion of Honour and an Honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). Together, Jean-Paul and Fairouz Villain are patrons of the Centre Pompidou for the Middle East region and remain actively engaged in supporting cultural institutions and artistic initiatives.

At the core of their practice is a belief in art as a space for exchange. Their home has long served as a place of encounter for artists, scholars and cultural practitioners, a spirit that continues to inform the Villain Collection as an evolving and open framework.