This is a rerun of a conversation that we initially published on February 8th, 2023 with iconic Palestinian painter, sculptor, author and cartoonist Sliman Mansour. This conversation is still very relevant today. If you find it useful, please share it or let us know your thoughts in the comments section. And make sure to subscribe to the THIS IS NOT A WATERMELON podcast for more interesting content on Palestine.
Distinguished Palestinian artist Sliman Mansour – whose work has become synonymous with the Palestinian identity and struggle – talks to us about his journey, exploring his influences, the evolution of his art, and his reflections on the role of artists in society.
From his iconic works like "Camel of Hardship" to his innovative use of natural materials during the First Intifada, Mansour shares insights into his creative process and the profound messages behind his art. He shares what it was like growing up in Birzeit, if painting truly was his first love, and why he doesn’t consider himself a “political” artist. Finally, he explains what he feels make art convincing and why patience is so important.
Sliman Mansour is a Palestinian painter, sculptor and cartoonist. A leading figure of the contemporary Palestinian art scene, his artistic style embodies steadfastness in the face of relentless military occupation. His work has also come to symbolize Palestinian national identity.