Upon entering Participant Inc. gallery in Manhattan’s Chinatown, visitors are enveloped in darkness, gradually revealing a constellation of artworks in [minna|منا]of us, a group exhibition running through March 15. This showcase features queer artists from Palestinian, Jordanian, Lebanese, Syrian, and Egyptian backgrounds. A blend of burning incense and a sound mix by Palestinian musician Falyakon guides attendees through the exhibit, curated by Palestinian-Jordanian-Egyptian artist Ridikkuluz as a venue for anti-colonial futurism interwoven with tradition and geography.
Ridikkuluz conveyed to Hyperallergic, “The exhibit aims to return the pen to the writer, the paintbrush to the artist, amidst ongoing genocide.” He noted that due to extensive censorship, these artists might not have found opportunities to exhibit elsewhere. While [minna|منا]of us highlights queer artists’ narratives from the region, Ridikkuluz stressed that the exhibition does not solely focus on identity markers. Although the oppression of LGBTQ+ Arabs has been manipulated in the context of Israel’s actions in Gaza, the exhibit consciously avoids focusing on shared trauma.
Multimedia artist Elias Rischmawi, of Palestinian heritage, commented on personal perceptions, “People often ask if my family accepts me being trans, and I dislike that question. My work demonstrates my deep connection with my family, celebrating my identity even amidst differences.” Rischmawi’s contributions include five photographs of family in Florida, Beit Sahour, and Chile, with a diptych juxtaposing a modern photo and a lost painting of similar family poses.
Drawing on familial traditions, queer twins André and Evan Lenox-Samour create with mother of pearl, nodding to family heirlooms preserved during the Nakba. Their sculptures honor these items and Bethlehem’s Hazboun family artisans, using motifs like arrows and stars to evoke themes of direction and migration. The exhibition also features a mixed-media piece by trans Palestinian artist Xaytun Ennasr, a stone bust by Alex Khalifa, and a film by Basyma Saad.
Upstairs, the SALMA gallery displays a self-portrait by Syrian-Canadian Anka Kassabji, depicting her poised in an icy bath. She explains to Hyperallergic, “I aim to capture fierce feminine energy. Despite icy challenges, I remain in control, celebrating my achievements.” Nearby, Palestinian-Jordanian artist Fares Rizk showcases vibrant portrayals of his drag persona, Sultana. Rizk shares that despite little sibling support, his mother encouraged his passions. He adds, “On stage, in the spotlight, it heals all anxiety.”
