Tarwida
Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine. In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be.
Episodes
Palestinian Dabke & Dance as Resistance | El-Funoun
In this episode of Tarwida, we sit down with Noora Baker, Head of Production at El-Funoun Palestinian Dance Troupe — one of the most celebrated Palestinian folk dance companies in the world, founded in 1979 with over 300 members and 16 major productions.
Noora takes us through her journey as a dancer since 1987, beginning at age seven during the First Intifada, to leading production on El-Funoun's
Makdisi Street x Tarwida Podcast: "They carried a memory in their head" | Dr. Salman Abu Sitta
In this episode of Tarwida, we share a remarkable conversation with Dr. Salman Abu Sitta — cartographer, historian, and founder of the Palestine Land Society — recorded on the Makdisi Street podcast.
Dr. Abu Sitta was born in Al-Maa'in near Khan Yunis and was expelled from his home as a 10-year-old boy during the Nakba of 1948. Over the following 75 years, he transformed personal loss into one of
Filmmaking, Looted Museums, and Palestinian Art as Resistance | Amer Shomali (Replay)
In this re-release of one of our favorite conversations from last year, multidisciplinary artist, filmmaker, and director of the Palestinian Museum in Birzeit, Amer Shomali, sits down for a conversation about art, identity, and resistance.
Amer shares his journey from a Palestinian refugee camp in Syria to studying architecture at Birzeit University, and the chance encounter that redirected his li
How a Palestinian Prisoner Won the Booker Prize | Bassem Khandaqji (Arabic Episode)
Bassem Khandaqji is a Palestinian novelist from Nablus who spent more than 2 decades in Israeli prison, sentenced to three life terms. In 2024, while still behind bars, he won the international book prize for Arabic fiction (Arabic Booker Prize) for his novel Mask of the Sky (قناع بلون السماء). Released in October 2024 in a prisoner exchange deal, he now lives in exile in Cairo.
In this episode o
The Language of Tatreez: How Palestinian Embroidery Became a Symbol of Identity and Artistic Narrative | Joanna Barakat
What made Tatreez — Palestinian embroidery — the symbol of Palestinian identity? Not ceramics, not glass blowing, not straw weaving. Why the stitch?
Today, we sit down with Palestinian artist and author Joanna Barakat, who has spent years chasing this question. She unravels the deep-seated significance of Tatreez (Palestinian embroidery). Once hand-stitched by women in rural villages to signal the
The Gaza Kitchen: Food, Resistance, and Reclaiming Narrative | Laila El-Haddad
Today, Palestinian author and activist Laila El-Haddad explores the intersection of food, politics, and identity. Discussing her acclaimed books The Gaza Kitchen and Gaza Mom, El-Haddad reflects on how culinary traditions serve as "repositories of dignity" and vital acts of resistance. The conversation spans from the unique spicy and herbaceous flavor profiles of Gazan cuisine to her experience fi
Zaghareed, Hakawati and Palestinian Storytelling | Sally Shalabi
Long before books and screens, people relied on storytelling to connect with one another, remember their past, and make sense of the world around them.
In this episode, we sit with Palestinian storyteller Sally Shalabi to explore the Palestinian context of this ancient tradition. As she invites us into her craft, we learn how she reimagines and adapts traditional stories to make them resonate with
Women Artists in Times of War | Lilies of Gaza (Arabic Episode)
In an effort to preserve and document the work of 22 female artists from Gaza, a book titled Lilies of Gaza was created bringing together their paintings, voices, and stories. In this episode, we speak with the project’s curator, Inas Deeb, alongside artists Rana Batrawi and Mai Shaer, whose works have been featured in the collection.
Together, they reflect on what it means to create art an under
Food is Political | Fadi Kattan (Replay)
Join us as we welcome renowned chef Fadi Kattan to Tarwida, diving deep into his rich family heritage and unique culinary journey. Fadi shares fascinating stories of his upbringing, the profound influence of his Teta’s kitchen, and his commitment to celebrating Palestinian cuisine through his acclaimed restaurants and his book Bethlehem, which celebrates Palestinian flavors and highlights the impo
Palestinian Stand Up Comedy | Alaa Abu Diab (Arabic Episode)
In this episode of Tarwida, we sit down with Palestinian comedian Alaa Abu Diab for a sharp, poignant, and darkly witty conversation. We talk stand-up comedy as a craft: how jokes are built, why cities develop different humors, and what it means to laugh from inside catastrophe- not as escape, but as confrontation.Alaa also shares insights about his latest shows, including “Virtual Reality”, which
The Voice of Hind Rajab | Kaouther Ben Hania (Arabic Episode)
When six-year-old Hind Rajab reached out to the Red Cross for help in January 2024, the ambulance car was 8 minutes away from her. She could have been saved, but instead, the Israeli army murdered her and two of the rescuers in cold blood. Her voice went on to haunt millions around the world, standing as a chilling testament to the brutality and impunity with which Israel continues to commit genoc
From Nakba to Now: Palestinian Memory, Cinema, and Resistance | Cherien Dabis
During the 1990 Gulf War, Palestinian filmmaker, writer, and actress Cherien Dabis experienced racism for the first time while living in the United States. These experiences shaped her path toward filmmaking and commitment to Palestinian storytelling. In this episode, we hear more from her about her beginnings and delve into her latest Oscar short-listed feature film, All That’s Left of You, which
Palestinian Tatreez: How Embroidery has become a Language of Art and Resistance | SILA
In this episode of Tarwida, we take you on a virtual tour of SILA, a collaborative exhibition, that brings together artists and artisans to explore how Tatreez (Palestinian embroidery) has evolved from a traditional craft into a powerful language of identity and resistance.Showing at Maraya Art Centre in Sharjah from September 2025 to January 2026, SILA presents contemporary interpretations of T
Palestinian Music, Jazz and Tarab Explained | Nai Barghouti
Nai Barghouti - Palestinian singer, flutist and composer discovered the power of her voice at age four, when the occupation forces moved into her building during the Second Intifada. Since then, Nai uses music as a form of defiance and identity. In this episode, she shares how legendary artists like Umm Kulthum, Fairuz and Ziad Rahbani shaped her sound and how she re-imagines Palestinian folklore
Palestine36 | Annemarie Jacir
When filmmaker Annemarie Jacir began searching for her next film, she found herself returning to a moment many prefer to forget, the 1936 revolt, when Palestinians rose together against the British colonial rule, long before today's occupation took shape. This film, Palestine36, eventually became a 9-year journey into archives, historic villages, and the ways history leaves its mark. In this episo
What it Means to Lose a Home | Suad Amiry
When Suad Amiry’s father tried to return to his home in Jaffa after 1948, he found that an Israeli family had moved in. They refused to let him enter. And when he returned to their home in Amman, it was the first time Suad had ever seen him cry. Years later, Suad would build a career on remembering what others tried to erase. Palestinian architect and writer, Suad Amiry, shares how her parents’ st
Of Oud, Sound and Silence | Le Trio Joubran (Arabic Episode)
In this episode, we sit with Palestinian musician Samir Joubran, one of the three brothers behind Le Trio Joubran - a family of oud players and master luthiers who have carried the craft and soul of the instrument across generations.We explore with him what it means to revive the oud today and how to make music that speaks without words. We also trace the deep intersection between music and poetry
Palestine on a Plate | Joudie Kalla
Born in Damascus, raised in London, and rooted in Palestine, chef, author, and activist Joudie Kalla speaks openly about living between worlds. Never fully belonging, yet finding a home through flavors, memories, and family stories. Known for her celebrated books Palestine on a Plate and Baladi, Joudie reflects on how cooking has always been a way to ground herself and celebrate Palestinian cultur
Swimming for Palestine I Valerie Tarazi
From the suburbs of Chicago to representing Palestine on a global stage, Olympic swimmer Valerie Tarazi carries Palestine in everything she does. Our first glimpse of her as a representative for Palestine was at the 2023 Arab Games in Algeria and then at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she held the Palestinian flag high. Beyond the pool, Valerie’s dedication to Palestine shines through her advocacy
The Brush that Carried a Homeland - Sliman Mansour (Arabic Episode)
Few artists have captured the soul of Palestine the way Sliman Mansour has. His paintings featuring olive trees, stone terraces, mud, and the steadfast women of the land have carried Palestine across generations and borders. In this conversation, Mansour looks back on his childhood as well as the mischief and hardships that shaped him. A pioneer of contemporary Palestinian art and a teacher who ro
Chasing Freedom | Yalla Parkour (Arabic Episode)
Walls, fences, and Israeli checkpoints try to dictate where bodies can and cannot move in Gaza, yet young athletes turn to parkour to reclaim freedom of movement under siege. Yalla Parkour, a film by Areeb Zuaitar, follows this story. In this episode, we sit with Zuaitar and parkour athlete Ahmad Matar to explore how their lives, though miles apart and shaped by different realities, become connect
Writing Palestine | Susan Abulhawa (Relaunch)
With a profound belief that artists bear the responsibility to witness and that art is an integral part of life, Susan Abulhawa, the internationally-acclaimed writer, weaves together history, activism and fiction. In this first episode of Tarwida, join us for an insightful conversation with Susan as we explore her multifaceted journey and discover how we can read our way into the depths of Palesti
My name is Palestine I George Qurmoz (Arabic Episode)
In this episode of Tarwida, we revisit the life and legacy of George Qurmoz, a Palestinian composer and musician whose work became a soundtrack of resistance. We trace his journey through music collectives and movements, exploring how his melodies echoed not just melodies, but entire emotional geographies.This episode was originally published on November 28, 2024 and is produced by Dom Tak, a Sowt
Older Than Occupation | Rima Nasir Tarazi
Palestinian composer and pianist Rima Nasir Tarazi reflects on her extraordinary life, sharing wisdom shaped by 93 years of personal and political challenges. Despite everything she’s witnessed, or perhaps because of it, Rima still holds a remarkable grit for life. In this episode she reminds us to remain hopeful and shares with us her enduring love for music and how it has served as a powerful ve
Just Saying You're Palestinian is Powerful | Alana Hadid
Creative director, activist, and storyteller Alana Hadid joins us for an in-depth conversation, sharing her earliest memories of growing up in a Palestinian-American family, the influence of her family members, and how she navigates social media algorithms to educate and raise awareness. We also discuss her involvement with Watermelon Pictures as Creative Director and her new podcast, The Seeds FM
The Woman behind the Wheel - Vera Tamari
From her ceramic sculptures to her time teaching at Birzeit University, Vera Tamari’s work captures the deep ties between culture, resistance, and rootedness. A trailblazer in the Palestinian art scene, Vera was among the first women to exhibit contemporary art in Palestine and has spent decades mentoring new generations of artists. In this conversation, we reflect on the role of women in art and
The Freedom Theater | Nabil Al Raee
Nabil Al Raee, a leader at The Freedom Theater in Jenin, talks about the theater's founding and its role in resisting oppression through storytelling. Despite challenges like funding and political pressure, Nabil highlights global support and hopes for the future of Palestinian art, freedom, and theater. This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our execut
From the River to the Screen, Palestine will be Seen | Watermelon Pictures
Dive into the inspiring journey of Hamza and Badie Ali, the brothers who transformed their passion for film into a mission to reclaim the Palestinian narrative through their production and distribution company, Watermelon Pictures. They delve into their origins, from their grandfather arriving in the U.S. from Palestine in 1935 to the present-day global distribution company they now run. They also
Decolonizing Architecture I Sandi Hilal & Alessandro Petti
In this episode of Tarwida, we speak with architects Sandi Hilal and Alessandro Petti, co-founders of DAAR—Decolonizing Architecture Art Residency. From refugee camps to schools and public spaces, Hilal and Petti reimagine space not as a neutral container, but as a political and historical actor. We explore how architecture can be a site of decolonial resistance, of imagination and repair, and wha
Food is Political | Fadi Kattan
Join us as we welcome renowned chef Fadi Kattan to Tarwida, diving deep into his rich family heritage and unique culinary journey. Fadi shares fascinating stories of his upbringing, the profound influence of his Teta’s kitchen, and his commitment to celebrating Palestinian cuisine through his acclaimed restaurants and his book Bethlehem, which celebrates Palestinian flavors and highlights the impo
I am the Land, and the Land is Me - Nabil Anani (Arabic episode)
What does it mean to create art under a brutal colonial system? To make beauty in the midst of struggle? In this episode, Palestinian visual artist Nabil Anani reflects on the First Intifada and the experimental spirit it sparked. He shares why art must be rooted in its environment, how creativity becomes a political act, and what it means to shape a visual language that holds memory, place, and d
Tatreez on Stone I Naqsh Collective
With each stitch and surface, Naqsh Collective reimagines the boundaries between craft, architecture, and memory. In this episode, we sit with Nisreen, Nermeen and Shireen Abu Dail, the sisters behind the collective, to reflect on what it means to carry Palestinian identity through form and material— exploring the politics of craft, the aesthetics of resistance, and how their embroidered narrative
Documenting Ghassan Abu Sittah I Carol Mansour & Muna Khalidi
When Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah left after 43 days of working around the clock under constant bombardment in Gaza’s emergency rooms, filmmakers Carol Mansour and Muna Khalidi didn’t think twice before deciding to document his story. In this episode, they discuss A State of Passion, their latest film capturing Dr. Abu Sittah’s harrowing experience. They also reflect on their previous works, Stitching P
The Palestinian Museum | Amer Shomali (Part 2)
In Part II of our episode with acclaimed multidisciplinary artist, Amer Shomali, we delve into The Palestinian Museum and the value it holds in conserving Palestinian arts, culture, and heritage at a time when Palestinian heritage is being erased. Throughout, we discuss the ways Shomali has challenged traditional museum structures, creatively honored the people of Gaza, and launched traveling exhi
Animating Resistance | Amer Shomali (Part 1)
From his acclaimed film The Wanted 18 to his multimedia art featuring the iconic Leila Khaled and the Visit Palestine poster, Amer Shomali takes us through his creative journey with all its twists and turns. In this episode, we explore how he weaves humor, animation, history, and art—not just to document struggles, but to reimagine liberated futures. This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Tar
A Disabled Palestinian Walks into a Comedy Club… | Maysoon Zayid
Maysoon Zayid doesn’t just tell jokes—she breaks barriers. In this episode of Tarwida, the trailblazing comedian, writer, and disability advocate talks about navigating the world as a disabled Palestinian woman in such critical times. With her signature wit and raw honesty, Maysoon reminds us that laughter can be a powerful weapon—and that some things are too important not to joke about.This episo
Palestine in Every Melody | Rola Azar
In this episode of Tarwida, we talk to Palestinian singer Rola Azar, whose music beautifully balances the past and present, blending the traditional with the modern. For Rola, music isn’t just art—it’s life. She shares memories of growing up in Nazareth, where she’d lose herself in the melodies of the city’s neighborhoods, learning not just to sing but to uncover the stories behind the songs. Join
Palestine Laced in Gold and Flowers | Dana Barqawi
Throughout her works, Dana Barqawi employs diverse media including photography, paint, gold, and flowers to craft a vivid portrayal of Palestine. She seeks to deconstruct biased narratives and colonial histories, reclaiming the agency of Palestinians. While maintaining a captivating aesthetic, the artist reveals the painful story of a colonial past and the ongoing struggle for justice. Tune in to
The Seven Waves: The Last Film before the Genocide | Asma Bseiso
Join us as we explore the deep, mystical, and symbolic connection between the sea and Palestinians, particularly Gazans. In this episode, we meet filmmaker Asma Bseiso, whose latest work, The Seven Waves, holds profound historical significance as the last film to document Gaza before the genocide. The film follows the stories of Beesan, a professional rower, and Muhammad a fisherman and lifeguard.
On Exile, Film & Romman | Saleem Al Beik
Join us as we delve into the rich intersections of literature and cinema as we speak with author and film critic Saleem Al Beik. This episode unpacks his unique lens on Palestine, exploring themes of 'return,' the evolution of Palestinian cinema, and the power of documentation in cultural preservation.This conversation is conducted in Arabic, in celebration of World Arabic Language Day, observed a
We are the Seeds of Palestine | Vivien Sansour
As the founder of the Palestine Heirloom Seed Library, Vivien Sansour is dedicated to preserving ancestral seeds and the knowledge they carry. In this episode, she explains why safeguarding these seeds is a powerful act of defiance against erasure and a vital contribution to Palestinian resistance. She also reflects on how reclaiming ancestral practices can inspire both environmental and cultural
Gaza on Canvas | Malak Mattar
How would a city enduring genocide appear on a painter’s canvas? In this episode, we explore the world of Palestinian artist Malak Mattar, whose vivid yet haunting creations offer some answers. Malak, who has grown up under siege in Gaza, and whose artwork traveled before she did, shares the importance of art to Palestinian memory and identity. Tune in to learn more about how she deepens her relat
Cinema against Injustice | Farah Nabulsi
From finance to cinema, Farah Nabulsi's transition into an award-winning director has been fueled by her passion for justice. In this episode, we delve into how she discovered filmmaking as a powerful medium for capturing Palestinian realities and discusses the challenges she faced, from filming under occupation, to ensuring that stories and characters are well represented. Join us as Farah inspir
Writing Palestine I Susan Abulhawa
With a profound belief that artists bear the responsibility to witness and that art is an integral part of life, Susan Abulhawa, the internationally-acclaimed writer, weaves together history, activism and fiction. In this first episode of Tarwida, join us for an insightful conversation with Susan as we explore her multifaceted journey and discover how we can read our way into the depths of Palesti
Introducing Tarwida
Tarwida is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Lead producer is Tala Elissa and Lobna Monieb is our co-producer. Our Executive Producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social Media by Kiera Doherty. Brand design by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. If you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear you
