Hiba G. Isleem

Born in Sharjah/United Arab Emirates in 1988.

Hiba G. Isleem is an architect, researcher, and filmmaker, residing in Salfit/Palestinian Territories. Holder of a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from An-Najah National University (2011), she has embarked on a diverse career as an architect, environmental activist, researcher, and filmmaker.

Hiba G. Isleem is a storyteller, using experimental videos and films to explore the complex fabric of Palestinian culture. Her works address themes of displacement, daily struggles, and identity, employing symbolism and abstraction to offer nuanced perspectives. With great passion, she re-edits her family’s archive, breathing new life into the memories of exile through multimedia, creating both a personal and collective exploration.

Her artistic repertoire includes stop-motion, shadow theater animations and mixed media, where characters reflect the complexity of the human experience. Isleem’s commitment to raising awareness and fostering community unity is evident in her projects, guiding audiences on a journey of self-discovery amidst chaos. Her lens illuminates periods and topics under study, leaving a lasting impact on hearts and minds.

Among her achievements is the Prince Claus Seed Award 2024 in Amsterdam/Netherlands, and she has participated in prestigious residencies and programs such as the UNIDEE Residency in Cittadellarte/Italy (2023), the Tadafuq Contemporary Art Program in Palestine (2022), and the Visual Arts Studio Residency of the A.M. Qattan Foundation (2022).

She has showcased her art on both local and international stages, participating in exhibitions, festivals, and screenings including the si:n/2024 Festival, Casa Árabe, Cineteca Madrid/Spain, FD-C, Dart Al-Funun, The Palestinian Museum, and the A.M. Qattan Foundation.