“POETRY OF THE GARDEN”

The Al-Kahf Gallery of Dar al-Kalima Arts & Crafts Center was pleased to present Filipino artist, Mominah Ali Al-Sahouri, in a unique ceramic exhibition, "Poetry of the Garden", which ran from June 18^th through July 21^st.  In works deeply inspired by the environment of the Holy Land, Mominah exhibited a commitment to creative artwork in Palestine despite the destructive atmosphere of the military occupation.  This exhibition was the first for Filipino ceramic art in Palestinian society.

Mominah, who is 33 years old, considers clay a dynamic material, one of strength and beauty, of flexibility and weakness.  She believes that when clay is properly formulated it can be strong and functional.

Mominah feels that Palestine is like a garden which inspires her to create ceramic forms using olives, peaches, grapes, flowers and other elements of the ‘garden’ as shapes for her different motifs.  For example, Mominah believes the olive tree is a symbol of peace.  It is a blessed tree, beautiful, dignified, strong and solid.  It never breaks even if beaten by a strong wind.  She further explained, “Some motives I use are flowers which are in abundance here in Palestine.  In Chinese, the peach is a symbol of lasting life (long life).  Grapes are also abundant here, especially in Hebron.  She considers Palestine a blessed land whose people are not only beautiful and friendly but also have a strong will and courage.

As a child, Mominah’s father introduced her to ceramic artwork.  Working at the International Center Arts Workshop for more than a year, she has learned now how also to use the potter’s wheel. She has received much encouragement in her ceramic expression by the staff at the ICB, especially from its General Director, Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, who motivated her to present her first exhibition at the Al-Kahf Gallery.