“Shade of the Olive” in New York: A Celebration of Art, Hope, and Identity

New York – Amid a setting charged with meaning, the city of New York hosted the “Shade of the Olive” exhibition, organized by artist Sahar Al-Lawdhai as part of the annual Concordia event. The opening was attended by the Mayor of New York State, alongside prominent political, cultural, and media figures from both within and outside the city, giving the event significant media visibility.

This annual event, often held in New York alongside the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), serves as a platform for collaborative dialogues addressing global and humanitarian issues.

Participating artists from Yemen and Palestine are: Fatima Al-shaeer, Laila Kassab, Asia Aldhubhani, Shaima Nasser Ba_Baeer, Ismail Ali, Baskal Yasser AbduAlhmeed, Rasha Sowwan, Mohammad Alasali, Irina Naji, Maher Naji, Nadine Toukan, Bandar Mueed, and Samar. Palestinian artists contributed works deeply connected to identity, heritage, and the Palestinian cause, while Yemeni artists shared pieces reflecting reality and hope despite challenging circumstances. The exhibited works offered diverse artistic visions of the land, its heritage, and its enduring stories, creating a visual experience that merges identity with shared humanity.

Artist’s Statement

In her opening remarks, Sahar Al-louthai explained that the exhibition’s title, “Shade of the Olive,” is inspired by the famous Palestinian olive tree, a symbol of resilience, hope, and love for the land in Palestine. She emphasized that art is a powerful tool for bringing people together, celebrating differences, and fostering a shared sense of purpose toward more cohesive and humane societies.

About the Organizer

Sahar Hasan Allouthai, is a Yemeni-American artist and curator whose work focuses on identity, resilience, and the human condition. She blends heritage with modernity and explores everyday human experiences in her art. Her international exhibitions have received widespread recognition across the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.And beyond her art, Sahar founded the nonprofit Qamaria for Arts, dedicated to empowering voices and supporting communities through creative projects.