Open Houses is a joint initiative between Arab and Jewish artists aiming to promote cultural and social involvement through engagement with the local community of Umm el-Fahem. Dating back to 2002, this tradition started following the events of the Intifada, in order to build bridges of personal connections, and encourage visitors to get to know the city, its alleys and markets, and visit the local Art Gallery. The inaugural project was a great success, and initiated a tradition of open houses in Umm el-Fahem that has since taken root and evolved.  

This year, the gallery is venturing out its exhibition spaces and is hosted in nine private homes scattered throughout the town. The families who open their houses share their love for hospitality and meeting people, and some have even turned this tradition into a profession and livelihood. Few families also demonstrate residing within an intergenerational Hamula. In addition, the oldest standing house in the city is opening its doors to visitors.

The participating artists were carefully chosen among dozens of applicants, and they all expressed high ambition to exhibit in Umm el-Fahm and engage with its people and culture. During the development process, the artists visited the hosts, and got to know their houses and create personal connections with their families, all acting as inspiration for the artists’ diverse work. (From the curatorial text) 

 Curator:  Carmel Goffer

Event producer: Adham Suleiman Jabarin