NCA Presents: Outside Our View

Curated by Rachel Eleanor Brook

Outside Our View was an exhibition dedicated to raising awareness and in support of the people of Palestine enduring ongoing catastrophic warfare.

The exhibition, supported by Newcastle Contemporary Art and held in the reception area of High Bridge Works, aimed to serve as a platform for artistic expression, emphasising the importance of continued attention and compassion for those at the centre of this crisis, creating a space where diverse voices came together to amplify the call for solidarity.

The exhibition featured no artworks promoting racism, xenophobia, antisemitism or islamophobia. Words and images were suitable for an all-ages audience.

A special section of the exhibition featured a spotlight collection of traditional Palestinian Tatreez works from Palestinian Artist Soha Hannouneh and available for sale via silent auction.

This exhibition was not only awareness-raising, but also raised money for the charity Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP). Most of the work was available for sale via silent auction.

Why Medical Aid For Palestinians?

Whilst many other charities were not accessing paths to enable them to deliver aid, MAP have workers in Gaza and around the wider Palestine region delivering urgent medical care, complex surgeries, post-trauma mental health and disability support. MAP also have a close, long-term connection to Newcastle as Dr Swee Chai Ang, founder of MAP, did her medical training in Newcastle and had subsequently brought children to the region for life-saving operations through her work with the charity since 1982.

*Ramadan
Out of respect for the people observing Ramadan, a few things were put in place to ensure Outside Our View was inclusive to our diverse audience and the artists participating in the exhibition. A prayer space was available on 21st March and 2nd April at the indicated times. No refreshments were provided out of respect for the people observing Ramadan.

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