“Seguimos Aquí” served as a dynamic platform uniting artists, war journalists, and photographers to tell the stories of resilience and survival through their art. This initiative wasn’t just about showcasing creative talent; it was a powerful act of remembrance and defiance, amplifying the voices of those who document life and resistance under occupation. Through photography, film, and storytelling, we shed light on the strength of individuals and communities enduring hardship while celebrating their unyielding spirit.
What We Did
1. Art Exhibitions
The event featured thought-provoking exhibitions by:
- Fatima Joumaa and Hasan Ali Fneish, whose series “Going Up South” highlighted the resilience of South Lebanon amid ongoing tensions, focusing on honoring martyrs through visual storytelling.
- Ahmad Adnan, who presented “Gaza Through Our Eyes” at Nun Café. His collection offered a poignant glimpse into daily life in Gaza from 2015 to 2023, blending vitality with suffering.
- Maha Ibrahim, who documented the symbolic return of a family to the depopulated village of Ma’alul in her series “Enduring Nakba.”
2. Film Screenings
We curated a selection of impactful films:
- From My Mother’s Novel by Fatima Joumaa and Resistance, Why! by Christian Ghazi during the inauguration event.
- Naila and the Uprising, a documentary by Julia Bacha that spotlighted Palestinian women’s pivotal roles during the First Intifada. The film was followed by a discussion that invited attendees to reflect on the enduring struggle for justice.
3. Community Engagement and Solidarity
The events fostered discussions and exchanges, inviting participants to:
- Reflect on the historical and ongoing struggles in Lebanon, and Gaza.
- Support the artists and journalists who risk their lives to document the realities of occupation.
- Contribute through donations and art purchases to provide direct aid to those in need.
How We Did It
Collaboration: Partnering with local venues like Beryti, Ateneu del Clot, and Nun Café ensured diverse spaces for artistic expression.
Curation: We carefully selected pieces that not only showcased artistic excellence but also carried powerful narratives of resilience and resistance.
Community Mobilization: By inviting attendees to engage in meaningful conversations and support the cause, we created an interactive and impactful experience.
Why We Did It
The struggle for justice in Palestine, Lebanon, and beyond remains ongoing. Through this event, we aimed to:
- Preserve Narratives: By sharing stories through art, we ensure that the realities of occupation and resistance are not forgotten.
- Empower Creatives: Supporting artists and journalists amplifies their work, allowing them to continue documenting and sharing essential truths.
- Foster Solidarity: Building connections between communities in Europe and the Middle East creates a global network of support for those enduring oppression.
