Gaza Biennale Unveils Impactful Solo Exhibition Featuring Multiple Media in Spain
In late 2024, a collective of Palestinian creators revealed the Gaza Biennale as a means of elevating Palestinian narratives. Now, this idea is becoming reality with events launching in “pavilions” worldwide. Following a collaborative Gaza Biennale exhibition opening in New York, Spain is opting for a more personal take with its Valencia Pavilion.
Highlighting a singular artist, Valencia’s The Gallery for Rebel Artists and Political Art (THE GRAPA) unveiled Hamada El Kept’s solo exhibit Under Surveillance. El Kept’s showcase follows closely on the heels of a group exhibition that showcased five Palestinian artists. For the artist, who was in Brussels for an art residency at the moment the conflict in Gaza erupted, this multi-sensory exhibition serves as his method of conveying the intricate emotions that have emerged from his circumstances.
With his entire family still residing in Gaza, El Kept can merely observe from a distance as his home, his studio, and numerous extended relatives have been claimed by the conflict. From poignant paintings replete with symbolism to installations addressing the mistreatment of Gaza’s inhabitants, the exhibit delivers a stark representation of the impacts of war.
This is especially apparent in The Famine, a multimedia piece that showcases video clips of Palestinians hurriedly seeking to claim their share of the limited food resources. Projected into the base of an empty pot, it presents a heart-wrenching image of what transpires when individuals, both young and old, are reduced to mere stereotypes and stripped of their humanity.
“This exhibition encourages viewers to examine closely—not only the artwork but also what lies beneath it: lives unsettled and reshaped, voices that endure,” express the Gaza artists who curated the pavilion. “It implores us to recognize Gaza not as a mere abstraction of warfare, but as a realm of individuals, culture, and creativity. In this way, it reaffirms the lasting influence of art to transcend boundaries, preserve memory, and unite us in our collective humanity.”
Under Surveillance will be displayed until September 30, 2025. A selection of El Kept’s artworks is available for purchase through THE GRAPA’s online shop, which is a wonderful opportunity to support the artist.
Palestinian artist Hamada El Kept launched his solo exhibition for the Gaza Biennale in Valencia.
The event was graced by Palestine’s inaugural ambassador to Spain.
El Kept was in Europe on an artist residency when the conflict in Gaza began.
Under Surveillance is a multi-sensory exhibition that articulates the complicated feelings surrounding war.
Exhibition Information:
Under Surveillance
September 11, 2025–September 30, 2025
The Gallery for Rebel Artists and Political Art (THE GRAPA)
Carrer de Puerto Rico 40, Valencia 46006, Spain
Hamada El Kept: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/hamadaelkept/?hl=en)
Gaza Biennale: [Website](https://gazabiennale.org/)
My Modern Met has provided permission to showcase photos from the Gaza Biennale.
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