RETURNING ARTS

"Returning arts" in relation to Palestine refer to artistic expressions that reclaim, revive, and reconnect with Palestinian heritage, identity, and narratives—especially in the context of displacement, resistance, and cultural preservation. We aim to explore

• Revival of Traditional Arts – Bringing back Palestinian embroidery (tatreez), calligraphy, ceramics, weaving and other indigenous crafts that have been disrupted by occupation and displacement.

• Diaspora & Return – Artistic works by Palestinians in exile that express the longing for return, cultural memory, and the right of return (Haqq al-Awda).

• Reclaiming Public Space – Murals, street art, and installations that symbolically or literally reclaim Palestinian presence in occupied or erased spaces.

• Reinterpretation of Palestinian Heritage – Modern adaptations of traditional Palestinian storytelling, poetry (Zajal), and music, making them relevant to contemporary struggles.

• Archival & Restorative Arts – Projects focused on restoring lost or stolen Palestinian artworks, literature, and music, or re-documenting erased history through creative means.