DNA

Hazem Al-Zomar (b. 1989) is a Palestinian visual artist whose work blends surrealism and symbolism to explore themes of identity, heritage, and emotional experience. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Art Education from Al-Aqsa University in Gaza (2014), and his practice focuses on reimagining traditional Palestinian symbols through a contemporary lens.

During a contemporary art program, Al-Zomar developed a symbolic persona named Solmaz, a character that reflects his personal and social reality. Through this figure and his broader body of work, he draws on surrealist traditions to craft introspective narratives that emotionally engage the viewer. Al-Zomar is also deeply involved in arts education, particularly with gifted children and youth. He leads training programs and community-based initiatives that aim to foster creative development.

His dedication to both teaching and continuous learning reflects his interest in expanding his technical and theoretical knowledge of contemporary art. He has exhibited widely in Palestine and abroad, with notable shows including Identity (2020, Beit Al-Ghussein Cultural Center), Be Alive (French Cultural Center, Jerusalem), Mediterranean Frequencies (Gaza), Shadow Fantasy (Women’s Affairs Center), and Contemplative Comparisons (Shababeek Studio, Gaza). His work has also been featured in the International Video Art Festival (French Consulate, Gaza) and in recurring exhibitions such as The Fourth Dimension, Retrospective, and Color from This World. Internationally, he has shown in Jordan, Canada, the U.S. (The Other Face, Ohio), and Ramallah (Traces).

In 2020, Al-Zomar was awarded a residency at Gallery Eltiqaa under the mentorship of artist Hani Alqam—a pivotal opportunity that supported the evolution of his contemporary practice. His broader professional experience includes workshops in printmaking, sculpture, graphic art, and expressive arts related to mental health and psychosocial support. He has led creative initiatives across Gaza, Beit Hanoun, and Rafah and has worked with organizations such as the Taawon Foundation, Atfaluna Society for Deaf Children, and the Family Center. Al-Zomar’s commitment to community and cultural identity is also evident in individual projects like Gaza Graffiti, and in his ongoing contributions to public art initiatives that aim to beautify urban spaces and preserve Palestinian visual heritage.