Where We Come From

Emily Jacir's provocative conceptual art probes the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the political and social issues facing the Middle East. In "Where We Come From," Jacir asked fellow Palestinians from around the world, "If I could do anything for you, anywhere in Palestine, what would it be?" Responses ranged from poignant – "go to my mother's grave in Jerusalem on her birthday and put flowers and pray" – to playful – "play soccer with the first Palestinian child you meet in Haifa" – to practical – "go to the Israeli post office in Jerusalem and pay my phone bill."

Using her American passport to facilitate a freedom of movement unavailable to most Palestinians, Jacir documented her attempts to fulfill these requests. Her journey through loss, daily struggles and sorrow tells the story of a people confined and prevented from attending to the most basic human needs.

Jacir's critically acclaimed project was described by New York Times critic Holland Cotter as "one of the most moving gallery exhibitions I've encountered this season." Kim Levin of the Village Voice said, "Her efforts reverberate with the complexities of fear, longing and travel restrictions. Read every affecting word."

The exhibit runs through Wednesday, May 25, at The Jerusalem Fund (2425 Virginia Ave. NW). The gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 202/338-1958.