Following the tremendous success of its previous editions, the fourth edition of Ramallah Art Fair (RAF), titled “Voices of Resilience” will open on Saturday,December 7, 2024, and run until January 18, 2025, at Zawyeh Gallery in Ramallah. The exhibition highlights the works of 35 Palestinian artists presenting over 100 artworks, reflecting the spirit of Palestinian resilience in the face of the ongoing genocide in Gaza. This year’s exhibition offers a broad platform to explore key themes such as displacement, identity and the deep connection to the land, at a time when Palestinians navigate the pain of the present and the uncertainties of the future. The exhibition stands as a living testimony to the ongoing Palestinian struggle and a vivid expression of the resilience embedded in Palestinians’ daily lives.
RAF aims to empower young talents alongside established artists by providing a robust platform to showcase their creativity. RAF also encourages collectors to acquire valuable artworks at affordable prices, thus supporting and sustaining Palestinian art, especially in these critical times. Additionally, the exhibition this year dedicates space to showcase the works of six artists from Gaza, who lost their studios and artworks over the past year. Through this, RAF contributes to reviving their artistic voices amidst the ruins.
This year’s edition will feature three distinct sections:
• Photography: Featuring works by Ahmad Salameh, Rehaf Batniji and Yaqeen Yamani.
• Contemporary art: A diverse collection of works by Alaa Albaba, Alaziz Atef, Ayman Essa, Bashar Alhroub, Bashar Khalaf, Bashir Qonqar, Hosni Radwan, Jasem Shuman, Karim Abu Shakra, Khaled Hourani, Mahdi Baraghithi, Mahmoud Alhaj, Maisara Baroud, Malik Abu Salameh, Mohamed Abusal, Mohamed Harb, Mohamed Joha, Mohamed Khalil, Monther Jawabreh, Raed Issa, Rahaf Haj Ali, Rana Samara, Salah Al-Froukh, Sukaina Salaheddin and Yazan Abu Salameh.
• Rare artworks: Showcasing iconic Palestinian artists including Fathi Ghaben, Ismail Shammout, Mustafa Al-Hallaj, Nabil Anani, Sliman Mansour, Tayseer Barakat and Vera Tamari.
The exhibition invites art enthusiasts, collectors, and cultural institutions to join this exceptional experience, which embodies the spirit of Palestinian art and reflects the reality of resilience for Palestinians everywhere.
Press release from Zawyeh Gallery
Image: Malik Abu Salameh. 2023. Shadow No. 2 . Oil on Canvas. 77 x 105 cm. Image courtesy of the artist and Zawyeh Gallery