Art in Ruins: Cultural Persistence and Resistance

Against the backdrop of an exciting new exhibition of work by 5 Gazan Artists and curated by Gav McIntosh from Artists Supporting Palestine, we will be screening 3 short films, showing how art endures against erasure—provoking change, inspiring solidarity, and reaffirming life and humanity.

The Art Exhibition runs from 21st November to 19th December and showcases the work of 5 renowned Gazan Artists. Limited Edition prints of the work will be on sale throughout.

The Film Screening

Film 1: Naji al-Ali: An Artist with a Vision

Documentary 1999 (Iraq, Palestine, UK)

Language: Arabic/English subtitles

53 Minutes

Director: Kasim Abid

Naji Al-Ali: An Artist with Vision tells the story of the Palestinian cartoonist behind Handala, the barefoot refugee boy who became a symbol of resistance. Through interviews and imagery, the film explores Al-Ali’s fearless art, his fight for justice, and the risks that led to his assassination in 1987.

Film 2: No Words

Documentary 2024 (UK)

Director: Hunter Logan

Language: English

7 minutes

Watch Palestinian artist and activist Malak Mattar embark on her boldest work yet: a colossal painting of loss, resistance, and hope. Recalling her experiences growing up in occupied Gaza, No Words bears witness to her life there and joins the global call for a ceasefire and an end to the Israel-Hamas war.

Film 3: Art in Ruins - Mohamed Harb

Documentary made this year by Mohamed Harb about artists in Gaza

Also check out other Arts events in Leeds, Entertainment events in Leeds, Exhibitions in Leeds.