Israeli Raid Results in Destruction of Gazan Art Center at Al-Shifa Hospital
The destruction of Shababeek for Contemporary Art, one of Gaza’s most esteemed art spaces, during a two-week raid by Israeli forces, has left the visual arts community in mourning. The centre, which housed over 20,000 works including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, was a cornerstone for the arts in Gaza.
Israeli forces targeted Al-Shifa hospital and its surrounding neighborhood, leaving a trail of devastation. Co-founder Shareef Sarhan, currently in Istanbul, expressed shock at the extent of destruction, lamenting the loss of his life’s work stored in the center.
Established in 2003, Shababeek provided a platform for artists to showcase their work and develop their skills, despite funding challenges and the blockade imposed on Gaza by Israel and Egypt. Through exhibitions, workshops, and seminars, the center aimed to nurture the arts and support the mental well-being of children in the war-torn region.
With the support of a grant from the Swedish government, Shababeek expanded its programs, collaborating with over 500 artists and launching Gaza’s first artist residency program. The center’s mission was to use art as a tool for social change, fostering hope, love, and peace in the community.
The destruction of Shababeek and another art space, Eltiqa Group for Contemporary Art, highlights the ongoing cultural devastation in Gaza. UN experts have condemned the attacks on Al-Shifa Hospital, calling for urgent action to address the crisis.
Source
Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.