Facing Al Aqaba

Facing Al Aqaba is an interactive multi-media exhibit that tells the stories of a resilient and peaceful Palestinian village, bravely building their future despite demolition orders. Presented within a self-standing freeform structure, this curated experience attracted more than 100,000 visitors when it pioneered at ArtPrize in Grand Rapids Michigan in 2013. The installation features life size photos and recordings from the village which are housed within a wood structure that is uniquely arranged to imitate the houses under construction. Seven families have already moved in to new homes while 15 others are finishing construction on the land they own, all with village-issued building permits in accordance with their master plan. Designed to emphasize the village’s peaceful nature amidst conditions that challenge the village’s ability to exist, this immersive exhibition tells a remarkable story of hope, while asking visitors to press policy makers to make calls to keep this village standing.