Nihad Dabeet was an artist known for his iconic olive tree sculptures and, in his native Ramle and among collectors, iron-wire sculptures in all sizes of animals and people. He was well-known in Wahat al-Salam – Neve Shalom, where he participated in Oasis Art Gallery exhibits and workshops, as well as being a dear friend to many.
The exhibit that opened on Friday, Dec. 20 is a fitting tribute to Nihad, who passed away unexpectedly at the beginning of the year. Along with his own work is displayed the work of students and close colleagues. This exhibit, simply entitled “Exhibition in memory of the artist Nihad Dabeet,” features sculpture and paintings by 24 different artists who had been influenced by him or worked closely with him.
It was an emotional opening and a fitting tribute to a man who lived and worked with Jews and Palestinians alike, and who devoted his artwork to inspiring peace. The artists who attended spoke of a generous spirit who was a true friend, making each one feel he was there only for them. Others spoke of a man who had many friends on both sides of the conflicts, and whose heart was broken by the terrible war.
The exhibit will remain open through March. Visits are by prior arrangement through the Gallery: gallerydyana@nswas.info.
The artists: Ahmad Canaan, Dahoud Haiek, Haim Schlesinger, Hasia Givli, Hayat Serag, Ingrid Noiman, Juhaina Habib Kandalaft, Leaki Melamed, Lior Matlov Kormas, Marcelle Dabeet-Judom, Mary Dabeet Manasa, Miri Ohayon, Neveen Dabeet-Jubranarsheshit, Patty Puterman, Rachel Mizrahi, Sassona Schits, Shireen Manassa, Sonia Barsheshet, Shuruq Egbariah, Suad Qasem Haj Yehia, Tom Shmuely, Tzila Kalev, Yonit Rachmani, Vered Marom.
Curators: Adi Yekutieli and Dyana Shaloufi Rizek
