Haifa Abu Saleh

Haifa Abu Saleh was born in Al-Yamun, Jenin, a Palestinian town located five miles west of Jenin in the northern West Bank. She completed her studies at Najah University in Nablus.

She writes:

“I get my art supplies from local bookstores or from abroad. I also take advantage of materials in the environment. My rule is not to throw things away; everything can be used in art. All of my inclinations are towards art, including my university studies. I desire to learn everything about art that I can. Art is a sublime message that transcends people and culture. Art reflects what’s inside of us, whether it be joy, sadness, or a dream. I see all of life through art.”

We Kept Our Roots

Of her piece, We Kept Our Roots, she writes:

“We were plowed from our homeland but we kept our roots. Our souls left with all the injustices around us when we were forced to abandon our homes and carry our memories into our new exile. O you beloved, we still hear the moans of your soil and we vow to return home to you one day.”