Basel Abbas and Ruanne Abou-Rahme, a Palestinian artist duo, made headlines in December 2020 when they launched Part I of their groundbreaking project, “May amnesia never kiss us on the mouth.” This online exhibition, part of the Dia Art Foundation’s Artist Web Projects series, delved into the themes of grief and loss, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The exhibition featured found footage from border-zone communities in Iraq, Palestine, Yemen, and Syria, alongside original videos by the artists, creating a powerful narrative of navigating through sorrow and pain during challenging times.
Fast forward to 2022, and Part II of the web project has been unveiled, continuing to explore themes of grief and loss but with a shift in focus. This time, the exhibition showcases nearly 170 found recordings depicting protests, gatherings, and musical performances in Arabic. The online platform provides English translations of song lyrics and detailed information about each video, offering crucial context for viewers who may be unfamiliar with the subject matter. By allowing viewers to explore the videos and their background, the project aims to preserve the identities and stories of those depicted, many of whom have been marginalized or forgotten.
The title of the exhibition, “May amnesia never kiss us on the mouth,” speaks to the artists’ desire to remember and honor the individual and collective experiences of resistance and resilience. In a time when voices and histories are often silenced or erased, the project serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of bearing witness to violence, displacement, and forced migration through art and performance. By keeping these memories alive, the project encourages viewers to engage with themes of resistance and identity in the face of adversity.
While watching the exhibition online may seem like a passive act, the act of witnessing and remembering is itself a form of resistance. In a world where information is easily manipulated and distorted, “May amnesia never kiss us on the mouth” stands as a testament to the power of art in preserving and amplifying marginalized voices. As long as the project remains accessible, it will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of erasure and displacement.
“May amnesia never kiss us on the mouth” is a testament to the resilience and creativity of Basel Abbas and Ruanne Abou-Rahme, as well as a tribute to the communities and individuals whose stories are often overlooked. The exhibition, curated by Kelly Kivland with Dia’s curatorial assistant Theodora Bocanegra Lang, is a testament to the enduring power of art in challenging times. The digital platform, programmed by Lukas Eigler-Harding, ensures that these important stories will continue to be told and shared for years to come.
