Details

Lena’s risograph book (24pgs - second edition of 85) is an ode to the things we inherit from our families;
'gifts we didn't realize were gifts', the meaning we glean from stories, recipes, memories, and
tangible items, and the stories they tell. Lena's family was forced to leave their home in
Jerusalem, Palestine, and moved to Jordan, eventually settling all around the world in search of
new places to make 'home'. This book is the culmination of the collection of all these inherited
gifts – tangible and intangible – that piece together what her Palestinian identity means to her.

“Gifts I Didn’t Know Were Gifts” is the culmination of work created during Risolana’s inaugural
Artist-in-Residence Program.

“It was important to me to utilize risograph in a way that would really celebrate my
Palestinian heritage and highlight the importance of narrative building and documentation in
diaspora communities. This medium really allowed me the opportunity to experiment and
combine different elements like collage, embroidery fabric, photograph, and illustration into
an emotional and personal collection of stories and experiences shared with me by my family.
I hope the book honors our heritage, and offers readers insight into the importance of
treasuring family history, memories, and oral stories.”