In the tumultuous landscape of Palestine, Samar Hazboun's photography transcends mere visual art, delving deep into the sensitive realms of gender-based violence. With a master’s degree in Photojournalism and extensive experience as a photo and video therapist, Hazboun's project "Hush" exposes the hidden scars of violence against women in Palestine through poignant imagery. This editorial explores how Hazboun uses her camera as a tool for therapy and change, building trust with her subjects and capturing their stories with dignity and depth. Join us as we uncover the profound impact of her work, her methods, and her ongoing commitment to bringing unseen stories to light.
In the heart of conflict-ridden Palestine, Samar Hazboun wields her camera not merely as an artistic tool but as a beacon of change. Through her poignant photography project "Hush," Hazboun delves deep into the shadows of gender-based violence, unveiling the resilience and unseen scars of its survivors. This article explores how Hazboun leverages her dual expertise in photojournalism and photo and video therapy to foster healing and bring crucial narratives to the forefront of public consciousness.
Early Beginnings: Finding Refuge in Photography
Hazboun’s journey into the realm of photography began as a personal sanctuary from the turmoil surrounding her in Palestine. Finding therapy in the visual arts, she initially embraced photography to craft and document new realities through self-portraits, describing this process as creating and capturing "new realities" that offered her respite and reflection. This therapeutic engagement with the camera laid the foundational ethos of her work, blending artistic expression with deep-seated personal narratives.
A Turning Point: Embracing Documentary Photography
The transformative power of Hazboun’s work became apparent during a solo exhibition in Amman, where the strong public and media reception underscored the impactful potential of her images. Motivated by this response, Hazboun shifted her focus to documentary photography, aiming to address broader societal issues, particularly the pervasive yet underreported problem of gender-based violence in Palestinian society.
Project Hush: A Deep Dive into Sensitive Narratives
"Hush" stands out as a hallmark of Hazboun’s career, showcasing her commitment to sensitive and ethical storytelling. Prior to photographing, Hazboun engaged deeply with the women in a local shelter, participating in art workshops and building meaningful relationships. This preliminary engagement, devoid of photography, helped establish trust and comfort, paving the way for more authentic and consensual photographic expressions. “It was only after six weeks that I actually brought my camera into the shelter,” Hazboun notes, highlighting her patient approach to storytelling.
© Samar Hazboun
Technique and Ethical Considerations
In capturing the stories of these women, Hazboun maintained a minimalist approach, utilizing a Sony mirrorless camera with a 35mm lens, favoring natural light to preserve the authenticity and intimacy of each portrait. Her careful consideration extended to protecting the identities of her subjects, ensuring their anonymity through the photographic process and in the final presentations, thus respecting their privacy and dignity.
Personal and Professional Backdrop
Born and raised in Palestine, Hazboun's deep connection to her homeland enriches her perspective, allowing her to approach complex subjects with a nuanced understanding. Her academic pursuits in international relations and journalism, coupled with her role as a Middle East Photo Editor for AFP, have provided her with a broad lens through which to view and depict the socio-political dynamics of her region.
Beyond 'Hush': Advocacy Through Art
One of Hazboun’s most cherished projects outside of "Hush" is "Past Preserved," a poignant effort to reconstruct lost images and narratives of Syrians displaced by war. This project aims to preserve the ordinary, pre-war lives of Syrians, offering a counter-narrative to the prevailing images of refugees in dire conditions. Hazboun’s commitment to such projects underscores her broader goal to use photography not just for artistic expression but as a powerful tool for social change and advocacy.
Looking Forward: Future Endeavors and Continued Impact
As Hazboun looks to the future, she remains dedicated to exploring and exposing the multifaceted impacts of global and local issues through her photography. Her ongoing commitment to improving her craft and deepening her societal impact reflects her belief in the continuous need for personal and professional growth.
© Samar Hazboun
A Beacon of Change Through Photography
Samar Hazboun’s work transcends traditional photojournalism by integrating therapy, advocacy, and art, making her a distinctive voice in the fight against gender-based violence in Palestine. Her photographs do more than capture moments; they spark dialogue, challenge perceptions, and foster a deeper understanding of the resilience and suffering of women in her homeland. In the landscape of Palestinian conflict, Hazboun's camera serves as a crucial instrument of visibility and change, illuminating the stories that demand attention and the voices that refuse to be silenced.
