THORNS OF CACTUS

Thorns of Cactus, by Mohamad Halbouni, explores the intersections of cultural resistance, land, and memory in the context of Palestinian history. The installation foregrounds the symbolic role of the cactus, a plant deeply rooted in Palestinian identity, resistance, and the physical landscape.

Cacti, often used by Palestinian farmers to mark the borders of their agricultural lands, embodies an enduring memory of belonging in the face of colonial destruction and displacement. When uprooted by settlers' bulldozers, the cactus regrows from its deeply entrenched roots, reasserting the land's original borders and bearing witness to the occupation’s attempts to erase those who planted it, along with their borders and histories.

In this interactive video installation, the cactus gradually illuminates the dark, uncanny surroundings as it shares its memories with the viewers. However, as the space lights up, it also reveals an even more unsettling reality. The work acts as a virtual monument, visually decoding the long complex struggles and silenced voices of the Palestinian people. Through the interplay of light and shadow, the installation invites viewers to confront the enduring power dynamics tied to land, identity, and cultural resistance.

Friday, 27th of September, 5pm-10pm

Saturday 28th of September, 2pm-8pm

We apologise, for “with the rubbles of old palaces” currently not being wheelchair accessible.

Please contact us with any accessibility questions, we will try to accommodate as best as possible.