Dubai: Palestinian artwork which combines emotions of anger, humour and pathos are on display at Art Sawa Gallery till April 15.
The event, in partnership with the Welfare Association, was inaugurated by Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
The exhibition showcases the finest Palestinian contemporary artists and is considered a one-of-a-kind non-profit cultural initiative.
The exhibition brings to the fore 56 Palestinian artists and features over 100 works by 45 professional and 11 amateur artists who have displayed diversified feelings to highlight the sorrow of the Palestinians.
It has produced a blend of reactions towards the constant injustice of the occupation.
This is expressed through portrayals of anger, humour and pathos.
Of hope and freedom
All the messages that are caught either by lens or brush revolve around hope and freedom.
This is the first exhibit in Dubai for most of the participants and some works were selected to be honoured by a UAE-based jury comprising leading figures in art.
The first prize went to Mohammad Fadil who was not present at the show, while Sama Al Shaibi secured the second prize.
She told Gulf News: "My photography titled Negative Capable Hands consisted of two pictures showcasing abstract body parts mixed with sand.
It is an attempt to express the essential ties that authenticate the unity of the body and land and symbolise the national identity, the 36-year-old professional artist said.
A Flame of Candle by Isra Odeh was nominated for first prize in the amateur category.
The piece mirrors the power of a flame and its ability to take several artistic forms.
This was the first exhibit for the 24-year-old winner who holds a graphic designing degree from Palestine College and works as a filmmaker.
Appreciation
The first prize for amateurs was also shared by Munir Alawi.
"I appreciate the efforts that are spent in order to bring our work here in Dubai," he said.
He added: "My photographic work focuses on ancient religious sites of Palestine and expresses the message of hope that is seen in my work Light and Reaching the Sky.
- WHAT: Creative Palestinian Art
- WHERE: Art Sawa Gallery
- WHEN: March 15 until April 15
