The Small Hours of the Night

Artists: Said Abu Shakra

Curator: Nurit Tal-Tenne

The inception of both the exhibit “The Small Hours of the Night” and the book “Mariam” occurred in a harmonious and continuous creative process. Throughout this journey, artist Said Abu Shakra fearlessly navigated concealed alleys within the depths of his soul and past. With courage, he ventured into the recesses of his memories, unearthing wounds and scars that shaped his artistic exploration.

Interwoven within his narrative are not only his own recollections but also those of his family and kin. His childhood escapades along the narrow alleys of Umm al-Fahem blend seamlessly with tales of affection, conflict, solitude, and yearning. A dominant and poignant presence is that of the mother figure – Mariam – embodying the essence of all mothers. The emotions of inspiration, fortitude, trepidation, optimism, and affection find their voice through expansive and emotive images depicted on paper. revealed for the first time in the exhibition.