Unfortunately for Abd, and everyone in Gaza, living circumstances have drastically changed. In April 2024, Abd reached out to me for help. After the horrible attacks in Israel on October 7th 2024, he and his family suffered greatly from the raging war in the area. The escalation has brought many misfortunes to his family, including the tragic loss his dear sister, her husband and their unborn child.

Abd has asked me to help him raise money for his family and for his future goal of get back to making art. I will not let him down. I promised him that his kind spirit will be seen and that I am happy to be his voice to the world during this manmade nightmare.

Whether he realizes or not, Abd is also helping me. Our conversations are deep reflections about life, death and art. He’s taught me to live with more peace and gratitude, encourages me to appreciate loved ones and to smile in the face of challenge. We look for beauty in chaos and pray for peace together.