Born in Rachana, the youngest of three brothers, Joseph Basbous instinctively followed the call of the mallet and chisel, honing his skills since childhood in a family where stone carving came naturally. With remarkable capacity and sensitivity, he initially worked as a stone mason and later assisted his brothers in executing their own artistic endeavors. Joseph Basbous followed the non-figurative path pioneered by Michel Basbous in Lebanon, working with simplicity and guided by his instincts.

In 1930, Howayek gained recognition as the creator of the first sculpture in Martyrs' Square, Beirut: Les Pleureuses – The Weepers

Alfons Philipps worked with a variety of materials, including metal sheets, nails, and branches from oak, olive, and lemon trees. He employed unconventional mediums such as coffee beans and color stones, meticulously collecting, grinding, and preparing them for his paintings. His predominantly abstract works, infused with a touch of surrealism, exuded strength through their concise lines and pure shapes. He often incorporated ready-made objects or natural materials into his creations, further enhancing their distinctive character.