Acclaimed Palestinian artist and war photographer Belal Khaled is set to embark on a tour of South Africa, scheduled from 20th to 26th June 2025. The tour, featuring stops in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Gqeberha, is hosted by Salaamedia and promises a series of impactful events including a photo exhibition, live mural creation, a documentary screening, and public talks. This initiative is designed to amplify marginalised voices and deepen understanding of the human impact of conflict, bringing Khaled’s compelling message of resilience to the forefront.
Ponty Moletsane, COO of Salaamedia, articulated the organisation’s vision ahead of the tour, stating, “This initiative is deeply rooted in Salaaamedia’s commitment to humanitarian journalism, aiming to amplify marginalised voices and foster global awareness about the human impact of wars.”
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A Voice Forged in Conflict
Belal Khaled’s profound artistic journey is linked to his upbringing in refugee camps in Gaza. His creative perspective, shaped by the Palestinian cause and the experience of displacement, has propelled him to dedicate his life’s work to documenting the struggles of refugees globally and giving voice to the marginalised. As Moletsane described, “Belal is a Palestinian artist and war photographer who uses art and photography to shed light on human suffering in the face of wars, conflicts, and disasters.”
Khaled is celebrated for his distinctive style, which masterfully merges traditional Arabic calligraphy with contemporary visual art. This innovative approach, as Moletsane noted, “redefines Arab identity, blending traditional lettering with contemporary touches to create a visual language that expresses humanitarian issues.” His work aims to “highlight human stories wherever they exist and create lasting change through art and imagery, making them a means of communication that transcends borders and cultures.”
His extensive portfolio includes coverage of numerous wars and conflicts, from Gaza and Syria to Azerbaijan, and humanitarian crises like the Syrian refugee situation and the Turkey earthquake. His photography often transcends documentation to become a catalyst for change. A poignant example highlighted by Moletsane is how Khaled’s “photo report exposing European border guards’ abuses against refugees contributed to stopping some of the assaults, reflecting the power of imagery in uncovering truth and achieving justice.”
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Engaging South Africa: A Programme of Solidarity and Dialogue
The South African tour offers a rich programme designed to connect the South African public with Khaled’s powerful narratives.
The tour will commence with a media briefing on Friday, 20th June, at 9 am at the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
Saturday, 21st June, will be a busy day. A collaborative mural activity in Soweto will see Khaled collaborate with local painters. Salaamedia is also organising the first-ever Palestine Solidarity Walk in Soweto, from Regina Mundi Church to Dlamini Mosque. Moletsane notes this is “a deeply symbolic route that connects two spiritual and resistance spaces”. The day will also feature an event in Ormonde, Johannesburg; the opening of Khaled’s exhibition, and a documentary screening.
These events are curated to foster dialogue, build solidarity, and inspire a collective sense of resilience.
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Global Recognition for a Humanitarian Vision
Belal Khaled’s impact resonates globally. His work, carrying a potent humanitarian message, has been exhibited in over 15 countries, including Belgium, Sudan, Somalia, Zimbabwe, Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, Qatar, Malaysia, Tunisia, and Saudi Arabia.
His unique artistry has garnered prestigious recognition. Google selected his works for display at its Paris headquarters, and UNESCO showcased his art in celebration of World Arabic Language Day. His compelling photography has been featured in major global publications such as Time, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, and Al Jazeera, solidifying his role as an artist dedicated to humanitarian causes.
His project, “Hands Tell Stories,” which focuses on the narratives held within the hands of those experiencing conflict, powerfully illustrates his artistic philosophy. Describing this project, Khaled stated he aimed to “shed light on personal stories amidst unimaginable circumstances, showcasing how human resilience triumphs over adversity.”
He further elaborated, “The philosophy of this project is rooted in the idea that the hand is a storyteller, narrating tales of resilience and survival amidst destruction and despair… Through these images, I aimed to present hands not only as symbols of victimhood but also as tools of healing and agents of change.”
Khaled’s visit to South Africa offers a unique opportunity for connection, reflection, and inspiration, reminding audiences of art’s enduring power to foster understanding and hope.
Image: Latam Arte
