Artists and cultural workers standing together for Palestine

1000 leading artists accuse art institutions of ‘complicity with Israeli apartheid’

More than 1840 UK artists and cultural workers from all fields of the arts have added their names to a collective of artists offering artwork in exchange for supporting Palestinian relief efforts.

The group, Artists for Palestine UK, was launched in May 2021 in response to the Israeli bombardment of Gaza. Since then, it has raised over £200,000 for Palestinian charities.

The move comes as part of a wider attempt across the UK and abroad to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism to silence discussion of the Israeli occupation of Palestine.

In a statement, Artists for Palestine UK said: “We believe that art has the power to raise awareness, challenge injustice, and build solidarity. We are using our art to support the Palestinian people in their struggle for freedom, justice, and equality.”

The group’s website features a range of artwork from over 1840 artists, including prints, paintings, sculptures, and photography. All proceeds from the sale of the artwork will go to Palestinian charities.

Artists for Palestine UK is part of a growing movement of artists and cultural workers around the world who are speaking out against the Israeli occupation of Palestine. In recent months, there have been a number of high-profile cases of artists boycotting Israeli institutions or refusing to perform in Israel.

These moves are part of a wider attempt across the UK and abroad to use the IHRA definition of antisemitism to silence discussion of the Israeli occupation of Palestine.

Conclusion

The collective action by Artists for Palestine UK shows how art can be used as a powerful tool to stand up for justice and human rights. Their work is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to speak out against oppression and injustice, and to use our voices and platforms to support those who are suffering.