The artwork “WE Don’t Give Up” by Belal Khaled is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that utilizes the medium of Arabic calligraphy on a rocket. This artwork was created in Gaza in 2021 and it reflects the artist’s perspective on the ongoing conflict and turmoil in the region. The use of a rocket as the canvas for the calligraphy adds a striking visual element to the piece, emphasizing the destructive nature of war and the impact it has on individuals and communities. The Arabic calligraphy which is an integral part of Arab culture, adds a sense of identity and tradition to the artwork. The message conveyed through the calligraphy is one of hope and resilience, in the face of adversity. The artwork speaks to the possibility of finding beauty and meaning amidst chaos, through the act of creating art.
The text written by the poet Samih al-Qasim, in which he says, “The sheikh dies from us, and we do not surrender, and the mother falls on her dead children and does not surrender.”