HAPPENING 21 Dec 2024–23 Mar 2025 | An exploration of Palestinian life and resilience through photography will be unveiled at Kunsthal Rotterdam this week. Adam Rouhana’s work offers a multifaceted view of everyday existence in historic Palestine, showcasing both joy and hardship.
Kunsthal Rotterdam to feature Adam Rouhana’s work
From 21 December 2024 to 23 March 2025, Kunsthal Rotterdam will host Before Freedom, an exhibition by Palestinian-American photographer Adam Rouhana. The exhibition portrays everyday life in Palestine, aiming to challenge stereotypical media representations and provide a deeper understanding of the region’s culture and resilience.
Rouhana, born in Boston in 1991, spent his childhood making regular trips to Palestine. His experience of the region contrasted with how it is often depicted in Western media, which he described as a dissonance. This inspired him to document life beyond the dominant narratives. “In the news media, Palestinians were often portrayed as masked and violent or as disposable and lifeless,” Rouhana stated.
Everyday moments amid complexity
Over the past three years, Rouhana has photographed daily life in cities such as Jerusalem, Haifa, Hebron, Nablus, and Bethlehem. His work juxtaposes the joys of community life—children playing, families gathering—with the visible presence of occupation, seen in soldiers and checkpoints. His photography, characterised by natural lighting and soft colour palettes, seeks to portray Palestinians as individuals rooted in their culture, resilience, and humanity. Recurring elements in his images, like olive trees and poppies, evoke the region's heritage and its ongoing struggles.
About Adam Rouhana
Adam Rouhana is a Palestinian-American artist who divides his time between Jerusalem and London. His work critiques Orientalist views and introduces new narratives about Palestinian life. Drawing on personal memories, such as those of his grandmother's orchard, he creates visual representations that explore themes of identity, history, and self-determination.
Directions to Kunsthal Rotterdam
Located in the Museumpark, Kunsthal Rotterdam has been a prominent cultural institution since its founding in 1992. Known for its diverse and dynamic programme, the Kunsthal offers visitors access to a wide range of exhibitions, from contemporary art to photography, fashion, and design. The Kunsthal is easily accessible via public transport or by car. The surrounding area features green spaces and several other notable museums, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts.
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