Ismail Matar
Ashes of Us
Brussels-based Palestinian artist Ismail Matar embodies symbols of hope through calligraphy, painting and murals. Ismail's work is not only intended to make political statements, but also to emphasise universal values such as hope, freedom and dreams. He considers art to be a universal language capable of transcending barriers. At Kunst & Zwalm, Ismail presented Ashes of Us. This work is a visual installation that uses Arabic calligraphy to give voice to the people of Gaza, who live under constant bombardment and oppression. The flowing lines of the script weave a powerful story of resistance, dignity and the indestructible human desire for freedom. From the ashes of Gaza and the dust of destruction, this work of art rises as a powerful symbol of hope.
We will live again. We will rise from the ashes. We are not a metaphor, but a living reality: the spirit of a people who refuse to die.
We are here.
We choose life, not death.
We seek peace, not war.
We demand freedom. Freedom. Freedom.
