(dā-rí): my home/shelter in Palestinian Arabic

A project goes out to all the queer Palestinian creatives (QPCs) with no place to call home.

Considering the diaspora* of Queer Palestinian Creatives (QPCs),

How can a virtual venue switch the narrative from marginalization to celebration, offer a safe space for self-expression, and strengthen QPCs’ position in society?

*Diaspora: The dispersion or spread of any people from their original homeland (Oxford Dictionary).

The visuals and developments in this project have been created independently, unless stated otherwise, as part of my final thesis project for my MA in Design for Art Direction at University of the Arts London (UAL).

All contributors mentioned at the end of this page.

Key Skills:

  • Critical Research

  • Art Direction

  • Branding and Marketing

  • Physical Artwork

  • Video and Sound Editing

  • Virtual 3D Modeling

Efforts to address these issues must acknowledge the complex intersections of identity and displacement faced by queer Palestinian creatives. Creating inclusive spaces that celebrate their multifaceted identities is crucial in fostering empowerment and creative expression. By recognizing and validating their experiences, society can work towards dismantling systemic barriers and promoting greater acceptance and understanding.

The QPC Diaspora


Since 1948, the Palestinian people have endured a profound physical displacement following the establishment of Israel, with over 750,000 Palestinians forced from their homeland. Israel's refusal to recognize their right of return, driven by demographic concerns, has led to diaspora across space and time, exacerbating their sense of alienation. Censorship, exemplified by the ban on Palestinian flags, has forced subtle displays of identity, while the shared experience of displacement has fostered a resilient national consciousness.

This displacement intersects with the marginalization of queer Palestinian individuals, whose sociocultural displacement stems from entrenched homophobia and societal norms. Under the Israeli system, they face psychological and physical threats, constraining their ability to express their identities freely. Socioeconomic displacement compounds these challenges, as marginalized creatives lack access to resources and opportunities, further stifling their self-expression.

Despite these adversities, queer Palestinian creatives demonstrate remarkable resilience, drawing upon their lived experiences to produce compelling work. However, the absence of safe spaces where their intersecting identities are fully embraced perpetuates their marginalization. This lack of acceptance is reflected in the censorship and pressure to conform to mainstream narratives, suppressing their authentic expression.

VIRTUAL SPACE

VIRTUAL SPACE

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HyperSpace: A Virtual Hyperpop Venue