Zawyeh Gallery in Dubai is set to host Nabil Anani’s latest exhibition, ‘The Land and I,’ from September 29 to January 12. This solo show features an array of new works that center on the theme of land, reflecting the artist’s vision of a harmonious Palestine.
The exhibition includes a piece titled ‘The Herd,’ which showcases vibrant landscapes that diverge from realistic representations of Ramallah. Anani’s paintings celebrate an idealized vision of Palestine, free from “checkpoints, cement barriers, or settlements,” as described in the gallery’s brochure.
Another highlight is ‘Kafr Qaddum,’ which underscores Anani’s belief that “the Palestinian land is not just a background, but an active participant in the narration of the story of Palestine that concludes with emancipation.” His artworks illustrate a deep connection between the Palestinian people and nature, emphasizing how this relationship has been disrupted by ongoing occupation.
Lastly, the piece ‘Zayta’ offers a reimagined portrayal of Palestine as a living entity, emphasizing the bond between its geography and inhabitants. The brochure elaborates, stating that Anani “erases the borders between the people and the landscape they live in, making them one unit with a shared history, present, and future.” For him, the land itself stands as a testament to the Palestinian struggle.