Weapons for Rafah

200x210cm, Acryl on canvas

Artist's Intention

The painting “Weapons for Rafah” is a powerful visual statement on the humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip. My aim with this work is to draw attention to the suffering of the civilian population, especially that of women and children, who make up more than half of the victims of the current offensive. This harrowing fact highlights the enormous human suffering caused by the conflict.

By depicting the dove as a cyborg with a rocket launcher, I want to emphasize the irony and horror of war: A symbol of peace becomes a weapon. This representation is meant to show the complexity and profound effects of violence and militarization, which can put even the most innocent symbols at the service of destruction.

The choice of Rafah as the setting is deliberate, as it is a place of refuge for many civilians who have fled the violence from other parts of Gaza. Rafah stands for the hope of protection, but also for the fragility of this hope in the midst of a conflict. The painting criticizes the disproportionately high civilian casualties and the documented war crimes, such as the targeted destruction of aid organizations' vehicles, and calls for reflection on the humanitarian consequences of this conflict.

However, it is important for me to emphasize that this artwork does not take a one-sided position in the conflict. It is not a judgment on any of the parties involved, but an appeal for humanity and peace. My aim is to depict the tragic effects of war on the civilian population and to encourage reflection on the need for a peaceful solution. This painting is not intended to polarize, but to raise awareness - for the suffering of the people and for the urgent need to end the violence.