Al-Azzami Family, Beit Lahya, Gaza, 2000, from the series: Vacant Seats, C-print, 50 1/2" x 40"

Noel Jabbour's photographs from the series Vacant Seats portray families in their homes, gathered around photographs and other reminders of their murdered loved ones. Natural light suffuses these photographs with a metaphysical quality. The edges disappear into diffuse light. These people occupy real, albeit undefined, space, likewise without clear borders. Otherwise, the photographs display a minimum of framing, staging, and premeditated composition. A more obvious point is gently made-- these families grieve their losses. They are still grieving. The occupation that claimed these lives is still busy claiming others.

Danun Family, Beit Sahur, 2001, from the series Vacant Seats, C-print, 50 1/2" x 40"

Noel Jabbour
Born 1970 in Nazareth, Israel
Studied at Hadasah College, Jerusalem
(Department of Photography / Diploma)
Postgraduate studies at Bezalel Academy of Art and Design, Jerusalem
lives and works in Berlin and Nazareth