Palestinian designer Majdulin Nasrallah creates key-shaped candle holders that are made from tear gas canisters collected from Nablus and Bethlehem. This is meant to truly capture the many layers of pain, but also the hope and strength that Palestinians carry. The candlesticks are colored and scented by hand and the holders are shaped like keys, chosen to represent the Palestinian key, a symbol of resistance.
The designer explains the meaning to Dezeen, she and her family had moved from Jordan to Qarar in 2000. Nasrallah notes, "We call it the 'key of return. It speaks of our forced displacement and right to return to our homes and ancestral land. Many Palestinian families took their keys with them when they were forced into exile in 1948 and promised to return in a few days or weeks."
She continues, "My candles are a reflection of my people. They burn, and stand strong and beautiful at the same time. I hope that when audiences experience the 1948 project, they can feel the layers of pain, hope and strength Palestinians carry within them."
Image Credit: Majdulin Nasrallah
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Upcycled Artifacts
- Nasrallah's use of tear gas canisters as candle holders highlights a growing trend in transforming conflict relics into symbolic art.
- Key-shaped Home Decor
- The symbolic use of key shapes in home decor items stands out as a means of incorporating cultural heritage into everyday objects.
- Hand-scented Candles
- The move towards hand-scented, artisanal candles reflects a shift in consumer preferences for personalized and meaningful home fragrances.
Where This Applies
- Home Decor
- The home decor industry can capitalize on the infusion of cultural and historical significance in everyday items.
- Artisanal Goods
- Artisanal goods markets are expanding with products that offer deeper emotional and historical connections to their consumers.
- Conflict Zone Art
- An emerging industry focuses on artwork derived from conflict zones, providing powerful narratives and unique materials.
