### Home Among the Ruins: A Creative Oasis in Bureij
Nestled within the confines of Gaza’s Bureij refugee camp lies a small sanctuary of creativity and culture—a home that reflects both resilience and artistry. Here, a couple has nurtured not just their relationship but also a vibrant community of fellow artists, journalists, and international diplomats. It’s a place where the echoes of laughter and the strokes of paint intertwine, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of Gaza’s artistic landscape.
### The Artistic Haven
The couple’s home is more than just a residence; it’s a studio infused with life, adorned with brushes, canvases, and a garden that bursts forth with colors reflective of their artwork. Their door is always open, welcoming those who seek inspiration or simply a shared space to discuss art over a cup of tea. Each visitor leaves with a sense of having escaped the harsh realities outside, if only for a moment.
Despite the day-to-day challenges posed by occupation—where art supplies are scarce and daily life is fraught with difficulty—the couple has managed to carve a niche for themselves, becoming prominent figures in Gaza’s art scene, often referred to as the “it couple” of their community.
### Eltiqa Collective’s Legacy
This couple isn’t just creating art in isolation; they are integral members of the ‘Eltiqa’ collective, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Established with the vision to uplift emerging artists, Eltiqa organizes workshops and exhibitions that showcase local talent. The collective serves as a beacon of hope, providing a platform for creative voices to be heard amidst the chaos. Thanks to their efforts, young artists in Gaza find opportunities to express themselves, breaking barriers and redefining what it means to create in a region often overshadowed by conflict.
### Celebrating Palestinian Culture
A significant aspect of the couple’s work revolves around the celebration of Palestinian culture. Their vibrant, lively paintings often depict local customs, traditional costumes, and scenes of everyday life, immortalizing the beauty and spirit of their homeland. “From the beginning, Mohammed had his own style of painting, and I also had a different direction than his,” artist Mattar shares, reflecting on their artistic journey. “We were different, but he was my first supporter. If Mohammed hadn’t been by my side since the beginning, I wouldn’t have reached where I am today.”
This dynamic collaboration not only enriches their work but also showcases the beauty found in diversity within their art. It serves as a reminder of how two perspectives can come together to create something extraordinary.
### Motherhood and the Creative Process
In the midst of their creative endeavors, the couple is also navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood. When one of their children approaches Mattar during a discussion, it becomes a poignant moment highlighting the balancing act of being an artist and a mother. When asked if she ever felt motherhood hindered her creativity, Mattar responds with conviction: “Despite life’s pressures, I had to make art, even during wartime. Art is a need for me.”
Her words encapsulate the essence of what it means to be an artist in Gaza—finding ways to create despite the odds, using art as both a personal outlet and a means of expressing shared experiences.
### Conclusion
The couple’s journey in the Bureij refugee camp isn’t simply about surviving but thriving in the realm of art. Their creative haven has become a focal point for community engagement, artistry, and cultural preservation in Gaza. Through their work, they continue to inspire both local and international audiences, proving that even in the most challenging circumstances, art can flourish as a powerful medium of expression and connection.
