Art In The Holy Land

The controversial concrete wall surrounding The West Bank has now turned into an outdoor art gallery. The latest exhibition called “Santa’s Ghetto, Bethlehem 2007’’, is a stark reminder of trouble in The Holy Land. One of the most striking images by a collaboration of artists is that of a dove wearing a bulletproof vest. This unique exhibition was started by graffiti artist, Banksy from Bristol, England.

Banksy’s sketches on the security barrier flow in artistic waves towards Manger Square, across from the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe Jesus of Nazareth was born.
Artists from all over the world have been traveling to Israel to paint on the security barriers. The works of art, Banksy hopes, will draw global attention to the problems of the Palestinians. The artist also hopes that more tourists will come to see these fantastic works of art, thereby helping the economy.
So if you are an artist, and you wish to contribute, go to Israel. The wall is long enough to accommodate hundreds of artists.
Meanwhile, the fight for peace in Israel goes on, with yet another futile peace summit.
 The daring portrayals on the Wall however, are slowly becoming a true reflection of all that is wrong with The Middle East. Maybe the politicians, both Israeli and Palestinian, should study the art that decorates the security barrier. There is a lesson to be learnt from these telling, disturbing depictions. Maybe peace will finally be achieved, with art as a stimulus.
It’s the Holy Land, stranger things have happened there.
 

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