FUNDRAISER FOR GAZA (14 - 18 Dec 2023) Their Voices, Our Dreams⁠

Ayyam Gallery decided to hold a fundraising exhibition at their gallery, showcasing the poignant works by Sami Samawi. Partnering with The Little Wings Foundation, 100% of the proceeds will go to the children in Gaza. Don't miss the vernissage on December 14th from 6 pm - 9 pm, in the presence of the artist.

Inspired by our dreams and the surreal daily footage of the conflict, these AI-generated videos represent a blend of hopeful visions and the grim reality of war. These visuals offer a glimpse into the resilience and enduring spirit of the Palestinian people.

Sami Samawi, WAR TIMES 2, 2023. Limited edition print, 29,7 x 42 cm (A3). Edition of 10. Image Courtesy of the artist and the Ayyam Gallery

Sami Samawi, WAR TIMES 7, 2023. Limited edition print, 29,7 x 42 cm (A3). Edition of 10. Image Courtesy of the artist and the Ayyam Gallery

Sami Samawi, SEARCHING 1, 2023. Limited Edition Print, 70 x 100 cm. Edition of 3. Image Courtesy of the artist and the Ayyam Gallery

“I've been dreaming of a Reverse Nakba. It's a personal vision, close to my heart, where I see people gently walking back to the homes they once cherished, now only memories. In these dreams, their path is lined with the simple joys of nature – watermelons, Faqqua iris flowers, and ancient olive trees. It feels like a divine red carpet is rolled out, not with grandeur, but with a quiet, sacred welcome. These dreams, so filled with longing and love, remind me that hope can still find a way to bloom, even in the hardest of soils” - Sami Samawi

Sami Samawi, REVERSE NAKBA 5, 2023. Limited Edition Print, 70 x 100 cm. Edition of 3. Image Courtesy of the artist and the Ayyam Gallery

Sami Samawi, REVERSE NAKBA 6, 2023. Limited Edition Print, 70 x 100 cm. Edition of 3. Image Courtesy of the artist and the Ayyam Gallery

In this series of AI-generated videos, titled Their Voices, Our Dreams, an artistic exploration of the Gaza war is presented, inspired by our dreams and the surreal daily footage of the conflict. These videos represent a blend of hopeful visions and the grim reality of war, capturing the essence of both dreams and nightmares. The surreal aspect of the AI art mirrors the fragmented way in which we are consuming news about the war, in brief clips on small screens, removed from the full depth of the situation.

Sami Samawi, INCUBATOR 1, 2023. Limited edition print, 29,7 x 42 cm (A3). Edition of 10. Image Courtesy of the artist and the Ayyam Gallery

Each piece in the series reflects the hope amidst despair that characterizes the lives of those affected by the conflict. The medium of AI art serves as a parallel to how we engage with the war – not through direct experience, but through digital representations, making the intense emotions of the conflict more accessible and manageable for viewers. This approach allows the audience to connect with the emotional depth of the war without being overwhelmed by the harshness of direct footage.

Through these videos, the aim is to highlight the sounds of hope and despair that resonate from Gaza, making the struggle of its people more evident and relatable. The art presents a unique perspective on the conflict, making it easier for viewers to digest and engage with the reality of the situation, while also offering a glimpse into the resilience and enduring spirit of the Palestinian people.

Sami Samawi, GIRLS 1, 2023. Limited edition print, 29,7 x 42 cm (A3). Edition of 10. Image Courtesy of the artist and the Ayyam Gallery

Artist Statement

"Growing up as an Arab in the diaspora, like many others with similar backgrounds, I often found myself distancing from my Arabic heritage. Questions like “What has my country ever given me?” or thoughts of being a 'citizen of the world' led to a deep-seated identity crisis. But recently, I've come to a profound realization: these beliefs were misguided. My culture is rich, vibrant, and beautiful. I understand now that the West often expects us, Arabs of the diaspora, to relinquish our cultural roots in favour of a more 'universal' identity. Witnessing the unity and strength of my people, my culture has stirred something deep within me. It has sparked a sense of pride in my heritage, especially as I see my brothers and sisters face unimaginable hardships. Hearing “Palestine has liberated me” resonates profoundly with me. It speaks to a liberation from my own identity crisis. It reaffirms my roots." - Sami Samawi