Resilience in Gaza: Stories of Strength and Survival
The Gaza Photography Project Grant exhibition presents an intimate and compelling portrayal of life in Gaza under the harsh realities of war, which began on October 7, 2023. While images of destruction, death, and devastation have made their way across the globe, revealing glimpses of the humanitarian crisis unfolding, the stories of resilience and strength behind those images are often untold.
Through this exhibition, we aim to shift the focus from destruction alone to highlight the resilience of the people of Gaza and their steadfast presence on their land—a land that holds the essence of their life and identity. The photographs capture scenes of Gazans standing firm on their soil, planting seeds of hope, rebuilding what war has torn down, and drawing strength from their deep connection to their land and history.
Each project in this exhibition is a cohesive story, capturing a fuller, deeply human view of Gaza’s reality, inviting the world to witness not only the suffering but also the resilience and unbreakable spirit of its people.
Stories Told by Hands
The photography project Stories Told by Hands delves into Gaza's reality following the events of October 7, 2023, unveiling an extraordinary story of resilience and the tenacity to live. Amid the devastation of war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives, hands remain a symbol of unyielding humanity. These hands, which once offered care, built homes, and strengthened family bonds, have transformed into hands that fight for survival, searching through rubble for lost loved ones and sowing seeds of hope in a land destined for struggle.
Each frame in this project reveals various scenes of Gazan hands: those still, lifeless hands silenced by war, hands severed by bombing and destruction, and hands raised to the sky in prayer, seeking strength and survival. These images are more than mere hands; they are living testaments that life is stronger than war, and hope rises from the rubble every time destruction tries to snuff it out.
Standing Here
This photography project, Standing Here, offers a wide lens capturing the complex human landscape in Gaza, shedding light on the resilience and challenges faced by the displaced who have been forced to live in camps and shelter schools, relying on street cooking to meet their daily needs. It aims to document the daily lives of these individuals and families, highlighting their stories that embody strength and determination in the face of harsh circumstances.
In each image, I seek moments that reveal courage and hope—moments that tell stories of endurance and survival despite all challenges. Standing Here is more than just a collection of photos; it is a comprehensive vision that documents the daily reality of the displaced and calls for a deeper understanding and greater appreciation of the hardships they face, hoping these images touch hearts and inspire support and assistance.
Jafra: A Portrait of Women in Gaza
Jafra is a photography project documenting the resilience of Palestinian women in Gaza, highlighting the role of women and mothers as they confront the harsh circumstances of war and displacement. The project takes its name, "Jafra," as a symbol of Palestinian women and their deep connection to the Palestinian cause, shedding light on their struggles and contributions.
Through this project, I aim to give voice to Palestinian women, showcasing their courage in enduring the realities of war and drawing attention to the humanitarian issues that impact their lives.
A War on Water and Food
A War on Water and Food is a photography project that examines the devastating impact of war on Gaza, highlighting the struggles residents face in securing their basic needs for water and food. The project captures the harsh humanitarian reality where daily life has become a battle for survival, while also showcasing the ingenuity of Gaza's people as they create solutions to stave off the looming threat of starvation.
The project focuses especially on children, documenting their arduous journey to obtain sustenance; from waiting in long lines to fill water jugs to standing for hours at charity food distribution points. Through these stories, the project aims to emphasize the importance of securing access to essential services for all, in accordance with international humanitarian law, and to advocate against their use as tools of war.