Artist expresses solidarity with Jerusalem in Salt mural

AMMAN — Mohammad Al Qasim expressed his rejection of US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel by painting a mural in Salt. 

The outpouring of anger triggered by the decision prompted him to join protesters using what he is good at: Art. 

“In the beginning, I was thinking of doing a small painting on paper but I wanted to make a bigger impact so I came up with this graffiti work,” he told The Jordan Times over the phone on Thursday. 

Initially, he was thinking about executing this project in his area, Sibahi, near Salt, but due to the lack of “proper canvas” for such a work he decided to carry it out in Salt. 

“After I saw how big the wall is, I knew that I needed help, so I shared a Facebook post seeking help,” he added. 

Qasim noted that the Salt municipality financed his project, adding that eight art students joined in the venture to help him. 

“It was very cold at the time but we were determined to go on until we wrap it up. We knew that there was no way back,” he added. 

Qasim said it took them three days to finish the paining, working from 8am until 7pm daily. 

He described art as a “very important tool” in spreading positive energy and conveying messages to the public. 

“Art is hope! I wanted to show hope in this issue: Jerusalem.”