This publication is part of Sharjah Art Foundation’s monograph series on the practices, processes and conceptual contributions of influential artists from around the world. The major monograph offers both a record and an insightful analysis of the Abdul Hay Mosallam Zarara’s work.
Edited by Ala Younis, this publication includes an editorial essay by her and a foreword by Hoor Al Qasimi. The main content of the book includes extensive colour images of Zarara’s work and archives, including his personal memoirs translated in English; annotated material selected from his portfolios; press clippings quoting the artist and his career; an index of selected artworks; a bibliography; and the artist’s exhibition history.
About the Artist
Abdul Hay Mosallam Zarara was a self-taught Palestinian artist who worked meticulously on archiving the recent histories of the Palestinian people. He recreated scenes from daily life in his lost Palestinian home that remained vivid in his mind since his expulsion from the village of Al-Dawayima in 1948. Mosallam also produced extensive documentation of the Palestinian struggle and liberation movements in the form of painted reliefs. This painted archive corpus is valid as a first representation of a community writing its own history and not just showcasing it as a collection of images.
About the Editor
Ala Younis is a research-based artist. Using objects, film and printed matter, Younis often seeks instances where historical and political events collapse into personal ones, and collaboration, curation and joint book projects form a big part of her practice. She is Co-Founder of the publishing initiative Kayfa ta, is on the advisory board of Berlinale’s Forum Expanded and is a member of the Academy of Arts of the World.
About the Publisher
Located in Sharjah’s historic Art and Heritage Areas, Sharjah Art Foundation activities and events take place throughout the year and include exhibitions featuring the work of Arab and international artists, performances, music, film screenings and artist talks as well as extensive art education programmes for children, adults and families. The Foundation hosts the annual March Meeting and every two years present the Sharjah Biennial.
