Palestinian Art 101: Artists Everyone Should Know
You have probably seen Palestinian art without knowing who made it: a porter carrying Jerusalem, a barefoot boy with his back turned, olive trees in bright colors. Here is a quick guide to the artists behind those images.
Sliman Mansour
Sliman Mansour painted Camel of Hardships in 1973, showing an old man carrying Jerusalem on his back. The image was printed on posters around the world and is still one of the most famous works of Palestinian art.
Ismail Shammout and Tamam al-Akhal
Ismail Shammout was forced from his hometown of Lydda in 1948, and much of his work tells that story. He and his wife, the painter Tamam al-Akhal, created a large mural series called Palestine: The Exodus and the Odyssey, which has been shown in many countries.
Nabil Anani
Nabil Anani paints joyful, colorful landscapes and has experimented with natural materials like henna and leather. He was one of the artists whose 1980 exhibition in Ramallah was shut down, part of the history behind the watermelon symbol.
Naji al-Ali
Cartoonist Naji al-Ali created Handala, the ten-year-old refugee who refuses to turn around until Palestinians can go home. Al-Ali was shot in London in 1987, and his killing has never been solved.
Where to see it in the US
The Palestine Museum US in Woodbridge, Connecticut, is dedicated to Palestinian art and history, and galleries in New York regularly feature Palestinian and Arab artists. Our Palestine Hope, Art by Moh and Palestine Wall designs bring some of that poster-art energy to everyday wear.
FAQ
+Who are famous Palestinian artists?
Well-known Palestinian artists include Sliman Mansour, Ismail Shammout, Tamam al-Akhal, Nabil Anani and the cartoonist Naji al-Ali.
+What does Handala mean?
Handala is a cartoon refugee boy created by Naji al-Ali. He stands with his back turned and has become a symbol of Palestinian refugees.
+Is there a Palestinian museum in the US?
Yes. The Palestine Museum US in Woodbridge, Connecticut, focuses on Palestinian art and history.
+What is Camel of Hardships?
It is Sliman Mansour's 1973 painting of an old porter carrying Jerusalem on his back, one of the most famous images in Palestinian art.
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