For the first time since its inception, Qalandiya International is widening its geographical outreach by inviting Palestinian organizations in the diaspora. This expansion is closely linked to this year's theme, entitled This Sea is Mine, which opens up discussion around the Palestinian right of return.

We are proud to participate, and have commissioned seven Palestinian artists based in Amman to each make a new work responding to This Sea is Mine. Artists Adnan Yahya, Hani Alqam, Jehad al Ameri, Mo'awia Bajis, Mohammad Shaqdih, Raed Ibrahim, and Saba Innab, each reflect on different elements of the theme in a variety of ways, and in interaction with each other the works form a range of personal perspectives, unveiled truths, and entwined questions.

As integral part of our curatorial approach we also bring in two filmmakers we supported, showing Salt of This Sea (2008) by Annemarie Jacir at the exhibition opening on 5 October 2016 in the presence of the filmmaker, while on 11 October 2016 Kamal Aljafari will be present at the screening of his latest film Recollection (2015). On 22 October 2016 Ramallah-based artist and curator Yazan Khalili will cross the borders of separation to join those in exile for a talk together with all the participating artists.

About Qalandiya International
Qalandiya International (Qi) was founded in 2012 as a joint contemporary art event that takes place every two years across Palestinian cities and villages.

Qi aims to place Palestine on the world's cultural map by producing a series of art exhibitions, as well as performances, talks, film screenings, workshops and tours, that open up channels for dialogue and exchange, both locally and internationally.

As a partnership between art and culture organizations, Qi works collectively to join forces to unify a fragmented geography.

Qi2016 will run between 5 - 31 October.

Haifa | Gaza | London | Beirut | Amman | Jerusalem | Ramallah | Bethlehem