Naji Al-Ali,

60 years of dispossession

Colors From Palestine 2008 Calendar

In a simple and forceful way, Naji cuts though all lies and disguises and brings the truth to the masses. Naji is perhaps best known as the creator of the character Handala, who is depicted as a ten-year old boy and appeared for the first time in Al-Siyasa newspaper in Kuwait in 1969. The figure turned his back to the viewer from the year 1973, and clasped his hands behind his back.

“He is an icon that stands to watch me from slipping. And his hands behind his back are a symbol of rejection of all the present negative tides in our region.” Naji Al-Ali

Handala remains an iconic symbol of Palestinian identity and defiance.

Resistance Art is a Palestinian initiative to celebrate the diversity and richness of Palestinian art and culture. As John Lennon said, "Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding is all you see." It takes courage to face life with eyes open. We, at Resistance Art, are happy to present to you a small window to the Palestinian people and culture. We would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to all Palestinian artists, who have been very supportive of this initiative.

We dedicate the “Colors of Palestine” 2008 Wall Calendar to the memory of Naji Al-Ali. Noted for the sharp     political criticism in his work. On July 22, 1987 he was shot in the face, at point blank range, as he left the London office of the Al Qabbas newspaper where he worked. He died after laying in a coma for 5 weeks.

 In the  2005 more than 170 civil organizations in Palestine called on the world to help them with their struggle against Israel apartheid in Palestine, they called for Boycott, Divestment and sanction campaigns against the racist state of Israel. Naji believed in ordinary people and their ability to change their reality, he was convinced if we mobilize the poor, the hungry and the marginalized they will change the course of history.  Resistance art calls on you (the citizens of the world) to boycott apartheid Israel, and to assist the Palestinian refugees to go home and live in dignity and peace on their land. Let's make 2008 the year of justice for the Palestinian people.

Culture and art are the soul of human civilizations. Throughout history, culture and art have always been the celebration of freedom under oppression. The blooming of Palestinian culture and art under harsh and thorny conditions is a true example of the strength and defiance of the Palestinian character. The Palestinian art and artists have come a long way over the years and are beginning to enjoy international fame. Palestinian artists ought to be recognized for their creativity, talents, and persistence.

With your help and support we hope to accomplish the goals we have set for ourselves.