SILENCE: A Luminous Meditation on Presence.

Upbringing in The War Backdrop

The sounds and flashes of fireworks have always evoked ambivalence for me. Growing up in a war-torn environment, the echoes of explosions and sniper bullets were an unsettling part of my daily reality. As a result, what many consider the soundtrack of celebration became for me a reminder of violence and instability. It's a dissonance that continues to resonate, even more so after the devastating explosion that rocked Beirut, Lebanon, in 2020—an event that turned an already controversial symbol of joy into a mark of unspeakable tragedy for many. For those unfamiliar, the Beirut explosion was a catastrophic event caused by the detonation of improperly stored ammonium nitrate, resulting in hundreds of deaths, thousands of injuries, and widespread destruction.

The Allegory of Fireworks

In "Silence," fireworks serve as more than just literal pyrotechnic displays. They become an allegory for all activities and choices that cause harm to our environment and well-being. From pollution to deforestation, and even excessive consumption, these metaphorical "fireworks" are actions that may bring short-lived joy but leave lasting negative impacts.

They provided not just food but also materials for crafting mats, baskets, and ropes. Their deep roots served as ecological stabilizers in a challenging landscape, while their presence in Sumerian mythology signified their spiritual and cultural importance, often associated with fertility deities. These majestic plants were not merely ornamental; they were, and continue to be, sources of sustenance and utility. From the deserts of the Middle East to the tropics of Asia and the Americas, the palm tree's universal presence tells a story of human survival, adaptability, and reverence for nature. Their form—bursting fronds reaching towards the heavens—has made them enduring symbols of aspiration and triumph. Yet, in the modern world, these ecological marvels have been relegated to mere decorative elements, often overlooked for their historical and ongoing contributions to human life. "Silence" seeks to reclaim this legacy, illuminating the palms as both ancient sustainers and modern-day reminders of the harmonious beauty that can exist between humanity and nature. Historically, palm trees were providers of sustenance, but today they are often relegated to ornamental roles. Their shape resembles that of fireworks—bursts of fronds reaching skyward, as if nature's own spectacle. These palms are illuminated silently and sustainably, becoming a metaphor for the beauty that already exists without our harmful interventions.

Silence as Inclusivity

Silence in this piece is far from passive; it's a deliberate choice to create an inclusive space for all affected by the negative aspects of loud and destructive human activities. This includes survivors of war and trauma struggling with PTSD, animals disoriented by noise and pollution, and even trees and natural landscapes often harmed by our choices. The silence invites contemplation, serving as a sanctuary from the often overwhelming, harmful noise of the world.

 Invitation to Change

"Silence" is a call to action—an invitation to reconsider the ways in which we interact with the world around us. It asks viewers to replace the metaphorical fireworks of unsustainable living with mindful actions that create a lasting, resonant beauty.

By weaving together these multiple layers, from personal experiences to environmental and societal implications, "Silence" offers more than a visual experience. It's a journey toward self-awareness and broader systemic change, imploring us to envision and strive for a world where beauty and celebration don't come at the cost of well-being, trauma, or environmental degradation.

On View until August 25th, 2023