Middle East artists open joint exhibit

As a symbol of their joint commitment to peace, 12 Israeli and Palestinian artists have come together to create "Building Bridges," an art exhibition of more than 30 collages, drawings, paintings and sculptures on exhibit at the Arthur Ross Gallery. By merely exhibiting their art together, Israelis and Palestinians are cutting through barriers and hostility that has historically divided them, according to Lucia Dorsey, one of the exhibit's organizers. "They have been showing together, and just by having contact they are making a statement," she said. Dorsey added that there is a diverse representation of talents in the exhibit, which is augmented by the different materials, styles and subject matters. Sulieman Mansour, a Palestinian artist, used unusual items such as cans, hinges, and mud in his work. "Palestinians used what they had," Dorsey explained. Mansour's sculptures are characterized by uneven surfaces and carved drawings hidden in the back. Khalil Rabah, another Palestinian artist, used an authentic wheat sack in his artwork -- complete with rips and holes. Israeli artist Tamar Getter draws with white chalk on black paper, creating various abstract pieces. Palestinian artist Taleb Duweik uses a myriad of themes in his work, ranging from religion to war. One of his paintings depicts a terrifying scene of prisoners facing armed soldiers from behind a barbed wire fence. The colors are dark and ominous. Another of his pieces, painted in lighter shades, portrays a serene mosque. Nabil Anani, also Palestinian, uses small pieces of painted leather in one of his works. Dilys Winegrad, director of the Arthur Ross Gallery, said in a statement that the exhibit exemplifies the Middle East movement toward peace. "The artists' cooperation and work are a powerful example of how art and culture can forward the cause of peace," he said. "The show in our gallery provides a context for further dialogue among members of the community, both on and off campus." The exhibit was planned to coincide with peace negotiations in Israel, Dorsey said. The show was organized by the Meridian International Center in Washington and will be open through April 23.

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