The Grapes of Wrath

Grapes of Wrath, Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 27.5” x 19.625”

The painting depicts a scene from the military operation entitled “The Grapes of Wrath” which took place in 1996 between Israel and Lebanon.

This acrylic piece incorporates the technique of paper collage. I chose and tore specific words from newspaper headlines such as: “fire,” “bullet,” “red,” “color.” Furthermore, most of the cutouts are pasted at an oblique angle in order to intensify the sense of turmoil and disquietude. On the other hand the lines defining the shapes in the upper half of the painting are mainly horizontal, perpendicular, and the diagonals that do appear in that area are soft and blended. Moreover, the painting captures a feeling of chaos and destruction which is illustrated in the lower part of the painting.

This sense of devastation is strengthened through the use of warm colors which are in direct contrast to the soft greys, blues, and pale greens in the background and in the upper part of the painting.

This evocative painting captures the emotional intensity and complex realities of conflict, offering a poignant reflection on the human experience during times of war.

Through the deliberate juxtaposition of chaotic imagery and calmer elements, Ednah highlights the duality of war—the overwhelming violence and the lingering hope for peace. The use of text from news headlines not only contextualizes the scene but also serves as a reminder of the media’s role in shaping our understanding of conflict. By intertwining these elements, the artwork invites viewers to grapple with the stark realities of violence while also contemplating the resilience of the human spirit amidst chaos.