Global Perspectives at New Canaan Library Presents: Skateboarding in Palestine

New Canaan Library introduces Global Perspectives: a series of lectures, discussions and programs presented with the goal of opening a dialogue on current global and national topics, from politics and economics to culture and the arts. Funded by a grant from a private foundation, the series aims to broaden perspectives and create greater understanding. The first lecture, Skateboarding in Palestine, will be presented on Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. in the Adrian Lamb Room. Please register online at newcanaanlibrary.org.

Palestine's unique and vibrant culture is often eclipsed by polarizing politics.  Adam Abel, artist, filmmaker, and co-founder of the non-profit SkateQilya, hopes to go beyond the politics and get to the heart of Palestinian culture with his presentation Skateboarding in Palestine. The audience is invited to experience Palestine through the unique perspective of skateboarding: hearing from the young people who live there, and gaining access to a culture and people. Abel  will present photographs and video from his work in the West Bank and share his experiences working intimately with Palestinian communities.  His personal stories and striking artwork offer a nuanced and fresh perspective on humanity’s universal connections.

SkateQilya is a youth empowerment program using skateboarding and art to teach community building and leadership to Palestinian girls and boys. Adam Abel spent over six years as an embedded artist following communities of artistic and athletic Palestinian youth, helping to create facilities and programming to help Palestinian children learn to fly. His upcoming feature documentary about the nonprofit is called Qalqilya. Abel is also a New York based artist working with photography, video and film. His photographs, videos and installations have been exhibited throughout the U.S. and internationally.