"Love Letters, Part 1: Home" explores the Red Thread of Fate mythos. The Red Thread is drenched in historical and spiritual dimensions, and is attributed to Chinese mythology where the lunar matchmaking deity, Yuè Lǎo, ties an invisible red string on the fingers of those who are destined to meet. No distance, time or space can snap the chord, and while the string may tangle or stretch, it does not and cannot snap. My series, “Love Letters, Part 1: Home,” plays on these concepts of unconditional and unbreakable bonds strung together by fate and God.

Central to the series is the crucifixion of Jesus, an exalted Palestinian whose life and sacrifice resonate with Palestinians in our struggle today. The red thread, a recurring motif in each scene, symbolizes the love, sacrifice and resilience endured in our struggle. In my series, this thread transcends the mythological symbol of a romantic destiny; it is made to reflect the bond between one and their homeland.

The dichotomous relationship between love and suffering; sacrifice and redemption; resilience and faith are drawn in this series. Through this red string, I draw the parallel between the Palestinian struggle, amidst the terrible reality of genocide, and the unbreakable ties to home, identity, and heritage in the face of relentless oppression.

Each photograph serves as a testament to the indomitable strength and resilience of a people stripped of their rights and fighting for their dignity, reminiscent of the enduring legacy of Jesus' struggle and sacrifices. Here, the red thread embodies not only the literal bloodshed but also the bonds that bind Palestinians to our land, history, and steadfastness, sumud in Arabic.

"Love Letters, Part 1: Home" is a realm of reflection, inviting viewers to consider the intricate interplay between love, fate, and justice. The series underscores the connections that bind us to each other and our collective humanity, urging a deeper appreciation of the Palestinian spirit and its unyielding commitment.


Copy Edited by Leena Aboutaleb