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Bronze 2025 Book / Other

Wadi Ara: Fabric of Arab Identities

  • Photographer
    Hedva Rokach
  • Agency / Studio
    Itay Bahur Publishing

The book, published by Itay Bahur Publishing, explores storefronts in Israeli-Arab towns of Wadi Ara:Baqa al-Gharbiyye, ‘Ara, Kafr Qara, Ar’ara, and Umm al-Fahm. The photos capture fleeting compositions blending shop interiors with the outside world—a mosque, palm tree, strong sunlight—and the photographer’s reflection among the mannequins. These windows express tensions between tradition and modern values, and the status of women in Arab society. A silent dialogue unfolds between old and new, coercion and freedom, modesty and boldness, concealment and display of femininity.

Hedva Rokach was born in Israel and resides in Or Akiva. Studied photography and painting at Beit Berel Academy and specializes in portrait photography and storytelling. She uses natural lighting and does not prepare her shots to tell the tale of people and their surroundings. Hedva showcased two solo exhibitions at Basis Art School and ‘Exhibition at the Crossroads’ as part of the 2023 Israeli protests. Participated also in a group exhibition at Georgia's Gori University. Released an international photo album ‘Tbilisi Dream’; many of her works were chosen for book covers. Photographer,writer.

BIFA
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