In a striking fusion of art and activism, Lebanese-Egyptian artist Bahia Shehab has transformed Mahmoud Darwish’s poignant poem “You Are Forgotten As If You Never Existed” into a powerful mural. Painted on a wall in Aberdeen (Scotland) as part of the Nuart Aberdeen festival in 2024, the mural stands as a vivid reminder of the enduring human ideals of freedom and dignity. The mural’s Arabic inscription, set against the vibrant backdrop of a large watermelon, boldly proclaims: “Bear witness that I am free and alive.”
This artwork is more than just a visual spectacle; it is a call to action. Bahia Shehab, along with a group of volunteers deeply invested in the theme, invites viewers to acknowledge the suffering and resilience of oppressed peoples around the world. The mural serves as a testimony to the atrocities committed against fellow human beings, urging onlookers to recognize and affirm our shared humanity and collective endurance.
Shehab’s choice of Darwish’s poetry is significant. Mahmoud Darwish, a revered Palestinian poet, encapsulated the struggle for freedom and recognition in his work. His words resonate deeply with themes of identity, loss, and resistance. By choosing his poem, Shehab bridges the gap between past and present, weaving a narrative that speaks to contemporary issues through the lens of historical and cultural continuity.
Bahia Shehab herself is a distinguished figure in the art and academic worlds. Based in Cairo, she is a Professor of Design and the founder of the graphic design program at The American University in Cairo. Shehab has developed a comprehensive design curriculum that emphasizes the rich visual culture of the Arab world. Her lectures on Arab visual culture, design education, peaceful protest, and Islamic cultural heritage are highly sought after internationally.
Her body of work delves deeply into themes of identity and the preservation of cultural heritage. Through her exploration of Islamic art history, Shehab reinterprets contemporary Arab politics, feminist discourse, and social issues. Her art is not merely decorative but is imbued with a profound sense of purpose and message.
The Aberdeen mural exemplifies Shehab’s commitment to using art as a means of peaceful protest and cultural commentary. By involving community members in the creation of this mural, she reinforces the idea that art can be a collective endeavor, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared responsibility.
In conclusion, Bahia Shehab’s mural in Aberdeen is a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, offering a universal message of freedom and resilience. It challenges viewers to bear witness to the injustices faced by many and to affirm that, despite the struggles, the spirit of humanity remains “free and alive.” Through her work, Shehab continues to inspire and provoke thought, reminding us of the enduring strength of the human spirit.
