Staples
Culture is built on enduring elements—symbols, traditions, and expressions that shape identity and provide continuity. Whether they're political, social, or artistic, over time these staples evolve, gaining, losing or transforming their meanings in response to our shifting realities and understandings. Those embraced become much like essential ingredients in a dish: they feed our collective consciousness and become integral in shaping visual languages. In this edition, we explore the cultural touchstones that define the Arab world—the art, music, language, and rituals that have persisted through time, carrying the weight of their heritage. From Mothanna Hussein’s reinvention of calligraphy in his Allah series to the transformation of childhood icons into Palestinian resistance figures and the cultural exchanges with Japan that have shaped Arab imagination, we examine how these staples and many others continue to influence perspectives, inspire creativity, and bridge generations. Through this exploration, we hope to spark a deeper appreciation for the elements that nourish and sustain cultural identity, offering a glimpse into the forces that continue to shape the Arab world today.
Jabbar
Founder of 7Hills Skatepark, Mohammad Zakaria, introduces us to Jabbar—a series of miniature figurines honoring Palestinian resistance. Unlike traditional toy soldiers, Jabbar reimagines everyday heroes, preserving Palestinian collective memory.
The Story of Caesarea Through Time
By Ghayad Khatib
Rituals of Absence: The Sacred and the Missing
By Nour Daher
Tsawwar... Amina Kadous
“This photo is part of my long-term project ‘White Gold’ where I combine my personal and national histories with the history of Egyptian cotton. Documenting the fading fabrics, traditions, and symbols of the past, offers a lens through which we can shape how we view ourselves. I go back to my roots and family tree, to my land and hometown El-Mahalla El-Kubra, located in Egypt's Nile Delta region. Once the citadel of industry in Egypt, El-Mahalla has throughout history been known as the center for harvesting and weaving cotton. The photo shows Warda the cotton picker during Egypt's cotton harvest season (typically between October and November). She carries a pack of harvested cotton to Mohamed, who stands inside the cotton sack, waiting to receive the handpicked cotton…”
A Study in Iconography & Form
Mothanna Hussein’s “Allah” Series
The Jordanian visual artist has long explored the intersection of design, language, and cultural symbolism. His ongoing “Allah” series is a striking testament to this, transforming the word into bold, structured forms that carry both simplicity and profound meaning. By stripping away excess ornamentation, Hussein offers a fresh, contemporary perspective on a word deeply embedded in cultural consciousness.
The Postage Stamps of Syria
Postage stamps have existed since 1840. All countries issue them and many use them as a way to publicize their culture and special occasions.Here’s a visual scroll of Syria’s stamps from over the years. Through depictions of ancient ruins, historical figures, and important dates and milestones, these stamps offer a visual narrative of Syria’s identity, preserving its legacy in a small yet meaningful form.
