Produced for a special traveling series with UNRWA USA; The Empty Portraits series engages the kuffiyeh as both a visual anchor and a vessel of memory. A symbol long associated with Palestinian identity and resistance, the kuffiyeh has, in the wake of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, become charged with both pride and controversy. While it stands as an emblem of solidarity, it is also used at times to flatten Palestinian identity. These portraits celebrate the kuffiyeh’s enduring presence while honoring those rendered anonymous by war. Rather than depict literal faces, the works use embroidered patterns and textile language to suggest presence, dignity, and absence simultaneously.

Prints of select works are currently available. The series remains ongoing through private commission.

THE EMPTY PORTRAITS

“Beit/Home – Palestine: Existence and Resistance”, East Window Gallery, Boulder, Colorado ; 2026
Special series for UNRWA USA; national tour with Motaz Aziza, 2024