Wrong Chair

In The Wrong Chair, Jeffar Khaldi transforms an old family photograph from the 1960s into a contemporary artwork that reflects on memory, exile and Palestinian identity. Using a surreal colour palette and a lively composition, he recreates the atmosphere of communal gatherings in the Lebanese mountains, recalling places and moments shared by his family. The work presents a different image of refugee life, moving beyond narratives defined only by loss and displacement. Instead, Khaldi highlights experiences of joy, connection and resilience, showing a family creating moments of happiness despite the trauma of exile. Children play, adults gather and hope remains present within the scene. Through this personal memory, Khaldi challenges traditional representations of refugees and emphasises the enduring strength of family, belonging and collective memory.