Zaitun زيتون – Creativity for Peace

I created Zaitun from a place of grief and helplessness, shaken by the moral collapse of our world. Thousands of children have been killed. Thousands more are starving, displaced, or barely surviving. All because a handful of men, bound by ego and power, refuse to see beyond their own narrow truths.

This piece is both a tribute and an apology to every child whose life was taken by the genocidal military actions in Gaza.

Zaitun is a data-driven visual memorial. It carries the real names of more than 12000 children (aged 0–17) whose deaths were officially documented as of October 2024 — representing nearly two-thirds of the known toll. The true number, I fear, is far greater.

I chose the olive tree as the form of this work. Each branch marks an age group, a stage of life never lived. The olive tree, deeply rooted in Gaza’s history, stands as a symbol of peace, resilience, and memory.

This is not just a work of art. It is a witness. A remembrance. A silent and enduring prayer for peace.

Note: This is a personal expression, created solely to raise awareness. It will never be sold or used for any monetary gain.

Data Source:

United Nations, Al Jazeera