The Palestinian Return Centre (PRC) in London hosted a compelling online panel discussion titled "Artists Defying Gaza Genocide: From Naji Al-Ali to Refat Al-Areer." The event brought together prominent Palestinian artists who shared insights on the powerful role of art as a form of resistance and a tool for solidarity. The panel focused not only on the role of art but also on the systematic targeting of Palestinian creators and the critical role of art as both a form of resistance and solidarity.

The panel opened by discussing the legacy of influential Palestinian artists, beginning with Naji Al-Ali, whose iconic cartoon character "Hanzala" has become a symbol of Palestinian defiance and resilience. The conversation further delved into the work of contemporary artist Refaat Al-Areer, known for his powerful literary contributions and poignant depictions of life under siege in Gaza. His work, like that of many others, highlights the brutal Israeli campaign, which targets both the physical and cultural heritage of the Palestinian people.

The event featured three distinguished speakers: Suleiman Mansour, Farah Nabulsi, and Nadin Burqan. Each artist brought unique perspectives on how art can be a driving force in the struggle for Palestinian liberation and the broader decolonization movement.

Suleiman Mansour, one of the most renowned Palestinian artists, is best known for his 1973 work "Camel of Hardship," symbolizing the burden carried by the Palestinian people. Mansour emphasized that art plays a key role in the continuation and revival of Palestinian identity, even in the face of systematic cultural destruction. His early works, focusing on peasants and traditional dress, illustrate the connection between art, land, and heritage. His efforts during the First Intifada, using local materials in protest of Israeli occupation, further illustrate how artists are systematically targeted and how their work is an integral part of the Palestinian resistance.

Farah Nabulsi, an Academy Award-nominated and BAFTA-winning Palestinian-British filmmaker, shared her insights on the Israeli military's attacks on the Palestinian people and culture. Her films highlight the stark realities of life under occupation, drawing attention to the humanitarian crisis. She argued that art and film give voice to the silenced, helping build the empathy and understanding needed to effect change.

Nadin Burqan, a Palestinian singer-songwriter based in Jerusalem, discussed her experiences as an artist working in alternative Arabic music in Palestine. She emphasized how music reflects the cultural and political realities of Palestinian life, providing a powerful counter-narrative to the dehumanization imposed by the Israeli occupation. Burqan's work, like that of her fellow panelists, speaks to the systematic targeting of Palestinian creators and the broader assault on Palestinian cultural heritage.

Throughout the discussion, the speakers underscored the devastating impact of Israeli aggression on all aspects of Palestinian life, particularly in Gaza. They emphasized the brutal campaign not only targeting the Palestinian people but also erasing their material and cultural heritage. By destroying art and suppressing creativity, Israel seeks to undermine Palestinian identity and resistance. However, art remains a crucial tool for reclaiming cultural identity, resisting oppression, and fostering international solidarity.

This panel is part of a broader effort to raise awareness of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the horrors of the Israeli military campaign, and the systematic destruction of Palestinian heritage. It serves as a call to action to end the Israeli occupation and restore dignity to the Palestinian people.

To watch the full panel discussion, please click here:

https://youtube.com/live/K4h83cKlTYs