Kathmandu— In the wake of intense conflict in the Gaza Strip, young survivors are finding refuge and a means of emotional release through artistic expression. Sixteen-year-old Maryam, whose family home was destroyed in January 2024, now attends an art space in Deir el-Balah where she draws to cope with loss and trauma – including the death of her uncle among over 73,000 Palestinians killed since October 2023. These spaces, established by local initiatives like Abdullah al-Ghafri’s cafe project and the Palestinian Student Care Association's music program, aim to provide stability and a sense of normalcy for children amidst ongoing destruction.

A Refuge From Reality

Maryam describes the art space as a place where she can reconnect with herself and her passion for drawing. For her, it’s more than just a hobby; it's a way to externalize feelings that are difficult to articulate verbally. “I feel a great sense of psychological relief, as if I can put my feelings on the paper instead of keeping them trapped inside me,” she says. She began attending in April and finds each completed drawing brings a sense of accomplishment and renewed hope, helping her avoid succumbing to depression.

Filling a Critical Gap

The creation of these art spaces was driven by necessity, according to 35-year-old Abdullah al-Ghafri, who founded the space Maryam attends. With most cultural and educational centers in Gaza destroyed during the conflict, he sought to provide a haven for young people’s talents. “The main goal is to lift the participants out of the atmosphere of war and destruction,” al-Ghafri explains, noting that securing funding remains a constant challenge.

The Psychological Benefits of Creative Expression

Psychologist Asil Abu Shawish emphasizes the therapeutic value of art for children experiencing trauma. She explains that engaging in creative activities like drawing, singing, or playing instruments allows them to release pent-up emotions and experience a sense of control amidst chaos. “When a child enters a safe space and knows they have time for drawing or music, it helps them feel that they still have a part of their life that they can control,” Abu Shawish says. She notes art can be particularly helpful for children who struggle to verbalize their feelings.

Music as a Healing Force

Similar initiatives are underway in other parts of Gaza. In Nuseirat, Jabr Thabet coordinates musical activities with the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music, bringing instruments and instruction to displaced children. Despite damage to the conservatory’s Gaza City location, teachers continue offering lessons in temporary locations. Thabet observes that music provides a vital outlet for expression and fosters a sense of community among participants. “For us, art is a form of resilience,” he says.

These artistic endeavors offer a crucial lifeline for young Gazans navigating the profound psychological impacts of war, providing spaces for healing, self-expression, and the preservation of hope amidst ongoing challenges.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.