IDENTITIES

The third episode of the MOZAIK EUR-MED ArtHub project offered a transformative journey for two remarkable visual artists during a month-long residency at the International Art Colony in Csókakő, Hungary. Immersed in the tranquil beauty of the Hungarian countryside, the artists found inspiration in the serene landscape, reshaping their creative narratives and deepening their artistic reflections.

The theme of the art residency, “Identity,” holds particular significance for both artists, given their active involvement in fostering dialogue within their communities and broader societies. Palestinian-Israeli artist Ola Zaitoun, navigates the intricate socio-political landscape where questions of identity intersect with nationality, religion, and belonging. Having left her homeland amidst war and the constant echoes of bombings, found herself enveloped in the tranquil symphony of birdsong and the profound stillness of her new environment. The orchard trees with their unpicked fruits fascinated her—symbols of peace yet reminiscent of abandoned groves near conflict zones back home, inaccessible due to military presence. This surreal juxtaposition led Zaitoun to explore her role as an artist in a world filled with “unpicked fruits”—a metaphor for the growing number of artists and the challenges they face in finding recognition and stability in an increasingly saturated art market. Her two monumental canvases capture the essence of these reflections, from the elegance of Japanese-inspired nature motifs to Impressionist-like depictions of vibrant greens and luminous textures, marking a striking departure from her earlier works.

Syrian-German conceptual artist Iman Hasbani, herself a refugee creating in Germany while her family remains in war-torn Syria, grapples with issues of identity, belonging, and displacement. She was deeply moved by the surrounding forests. Exploring the interplay of shifting light, colours, and movement, she saw parallels between the natural rhythms of the trees and the challenging journeys of displaced Syrians who traversed forests and mountains seeking refuge. Her video performance Breathing, filmed in the nearby Gaja Valley, powerfully captures the tension between confinement and survival as she breathes inside a transparent plastic box with limited air—an exploration of the fragility of existence in a fractured world.

Both artists, as members of minority communities, bring unique perspectives shaped by their experiences. Through their work, they aim to challenge perceptions and prompt viewers to engage with profound questions. Both artists embraced the residency as a sanctuary for artistic growth and healing, engaging in dialogues with nature that became a refuge from fear and anguish. The resulting collection of works offers a profound meditation on identity, freedom, and resilience against the backdrop of new landscapes.

This collection stands as a testament to the enduring connection between art and the natural world, and the resilience of the human spirit amidst life’s adversities. Supported by the Anna Lindh Foundation and co-funded by the European Union, this initiative holds significant importance in promoting Intercultural Dialogue. By inviting two artists from the Mediterranean’s complementary shores, it facilitates a rich exchange of perspectives and ideas. Moreover, presenting their artwork to broader audiences enhances mutual understanding of each other’s cultures, particularly within the realm of visual arts. Consequently, the initiative targets multiple goals, expanding cultural horizons and fostering cross-cultural appreciation in the visual arts field. We invite you to explore this inspiring dialogue of artistic expressions, where personal journeys intertwine with shared human experiences.