SZ Gallery - Mercer Island, WA
06 September - 31 December 2024

SZ Gallery presents Control Anatomy, an exhibit curated in collaboration with the Zawyeh Gallery in Ramallah, Palestine. This solo exhibition by Palestinian artist Mahmoud Alhaj explores colonial violence and the architectural mechanisms of domination and control over Palestinian geography witnessed by Alhaj who was born in Gaza. The exhibit opens Friday, Sept. 6 at 5 p.m. during the Mercer Island First Friday Art Walk.

Akin to a forensic investigator, Alhaj meticulously gathers traces of evidence left by colonial strategies that have distorted the landscape and delineated control and domination. Through his artwork, he layers photographs taken over the years and compares them to uncover changes over time. He discovers evidence in the wall, sewage dumps, military barracks, watchtowers, streets, roundabouts, and borders. Through the examination of the oppressive tools employed in the ongoing genocide and atrocities committed in the Gaza Strip, Alhaj reveals how the instruments of violence and control have shaped the day-to-day lives of those living in Gaza and subjugated Palestinians for decades.

SZ Gallery - Mercer Island, WA
06 September - 31 December 2024

SZ Gallery presents Control Anatomy, an exhibit curated in collaboration with the Zawyeh Gallery in Ramallah, Palestine. This solo exhibition by Palestinian artist Mahmoud Alhaj explores colonial violence and the architectural mechanisms of domination and control over Palestinian geography witnessed by Alhaj who was born in Gaza. The exhibit opens Friday, Sept. 6 at 5 p.m. during the Mercer Island First Friday Art Walk.

Akin to a forensic investigator, Alhaj meticulously gathers traces of evidence left by colonial strategies that have distorted the landscape and delineated control and domination. Through his artwork, he layers photographs taken over the years and compares them to uncover changes over time. He discovers evidence in the wall, sewage dumps, military barracks, watchtowers, streets, roundabouts, and borders. Through the examination of the oppressive tools employed in the ongoing genocide and atrocities committed in the Gaza Strip, Alhaj reveals how the instruments of violence and control have shaped the day-to-day lives of those living in Gaza and subjugated Palestinians for decades.