Mahasen al-Khateeb: Artist who depicted war in Gaza killed in Israeli air strike
Mahasen al-Khateeb used her talent in illustration and character design to document the horrors of Israel's war on Gaza since it erupted last October.
On Saturday, she posted her last artwork, depicting the 19-year-old Shaban al-Dalu, who was burned to death during the Israeli bombing of al-Aqsa Hospital a few days ago.
Shortly afterwards, she was killed in an Israeli air strike that targeted her neighbourhood in Jabalia camp in northern Gaza.
Mahasen and her family were at home when the attack happened. In a Facebook post, she shared that there was no safe place left in Gaza to escape to, having already evacuated multiple times with death constantly looming.
For the last 15 days, the Israeli army has been invading northern Gaza under relentless bombing, which residents describe as the most violent incursion since 7 October 2023.
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“The house was full of displaced people when Israel launched a series of intense attacks on the neighbourhood,” Mahasen's uncle, Hosam al-Khateeb, told Middle East Eye.
This is Mahasen al-Khateeb, a Palestinian digital illustrator who was telling the story of her people through art.
— Mai El-Sadany (@maitelsadany) October 19, 2024
Yesterday, Israel killed Mahasen in strikes on Jabalia in Northern Gaza.
Yet another young talent, with dreams, aspirations, and a story, taken way too soon. pic.twitter.com/CCM8ogWpzM
“Mahasen was killed instantly and eight individuals were injured, some critically,” Hosam said.
Ambulances and civil defence crews struggled to reach the area due to heavy artillery shelling.
“We still can’t bury her body, which is at Kamal Adwan Hospital, because of the dangerous situation,” he added.
Painting during wartime
Mahasen was a painter, storyboard artist, freelance character designer and digital art mentor, supporting her family through her work. She used her talent to advocate for Palestinian rights and raise awareness of Israeli violations in Palestine.
Even during the war, she launched free online courses in freelance digital art to help those with internet access create a source of income.
“Mahasen was one of the most professional, humble and lovely artists in Gaza,” said Jumana Shahin, a trainee and friend of Mahasen.
'Mahasen was one of the most professional, humble and lovely artists in Gaza'
- Jumana Shahin, Mahasen's friend
“She left a lasting impression on everyone she taught or met.”
Despite the continuous bombardment and poor internet connectivity, the artist used to depict and share the reality in Gaza on her social media.
“She once told me that she wanted to share her knowledge and experiences as much as possible because if she were to be killed, at least her knowledge would live on through others,” Shahin said, her voice trembling.
After evacuating to Egypt, Shahin stayed in contact with Mahasen.
“I have never met someone as resilient as her. Even when she would speak about her suffering from starvation and the terrifying sounds of bombings, she did it with a sense of humour,” Shahin added.
Bilal Abunadi, who worked with Mahasen at a media and graphic design company, is still in shock over the news of her killing.
“Her energy and commitment at work inspired everyone,” Bilal told MEE.
“She brought a joyful spirit to everything she did, turning even the pressures of work into an enjoyable experience and encouraging everyone to do their best.”
News of her death quickly spread on social media, leaving thousands of her followers, students and fellow activists grieving.
“She was such a kind-hearted and generous person,” Bilal added. “She believed that Gazan artists deserve the best that life can offer.”
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