Diana Farah

In the vibrant streets of Naples, Italy, amidst the rich tapestry of culture and history, one artist stands out for his powerful portrayal of Palestinian resistance: Eduardo Castaldo.

Through his evocative artworks, Castaldo brings to life the struggles, resilience, and aspirations of the Palestinian people, igniting conversations and fostering empathy in the heart of Southern Italy.

Castaldo’s journey as a visual artist has been deeply influenced by his own heritage and the socio-political landscapes of both Italy and the Middle East.

Speaking to Arab News Japan, the artist said that he had lived and worked in Ramallah, where his wife worked as part of an NGO.

Castaldo said he worked as a photojournalist there and witnessed firsthand the abuse of Palestinians under Israeli occupation.

“Resistance is something I learned from the Arabs,” he said, adding that his work was “not easy and complex” at the time.

“I feel it is my responsibility to give back all the trust and all the money I took from my job as a photojournalist,” Castaldo explained.

The Italian artist said that his photos during his time in Ramallah and the few times he was in Gaza were sold to big media companies, who would in turn give different context to the photos that did not reflect the reality of the situation.

Castaldo transformed the guilt he felt from his time as a photojournalist into powerful pieces plastered all over the Italian streets.

In his exhibitions across Naples, Castaldo showcases a diverse array of artworks that capture the essence of Palestinian resistance. From striking paintings depicting scenes of protest and solidarity to provocative political pieces symbolizing the endurance of Palestinian culture, each piece serves as a testament to the resilience of a people striving for freedom and dignity.

He told Arab News Japan that the double standards in the West, specifically in Europe, were a “disaster.”

Comparing the reaction to the Ukrainian-Russian conflict to what is happening in Gaza today, Castaldo said that Europe’s humanity was a “lie.”

“When it came to the Palestinians in Gaza, they revealed their total fakeness and their fake humanitarian attitude.”

What sets Castaldo’s work apart is not just its aesthetic appeal but also its profound message and purpose. By shedding light on the Palestinian cause in Naples, he challenges stereotypes, confronts ignorance, and prompts viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the realities of life under occupation.

“In Naples, I have the support and people feel connected to my artwork,” he told Arab News Japan, adding that he did not face any negative reactions. “I create art that reflects what everyone is thinking but is not saying.”

Moreover, Castaldo’s commitment to solidarity extends beyond the confines of canvases.

He launched a fundraising campaign, in which he sold t-shirts with artwork printed onto them. All the profits from the garments were donated to the Palestinian Red Crescent.

Castaldo explained that the “Zionist colonization is not only happening in Palestine, but all over the world.”

“We as Italians have seen our news and our mainstream media totally colonized by a Zionist narrative. Our politics have been totally colonized by a Zionist narrative so resisting for us means resisting for my freedom of expression, my freedom of bringing the truth outside,” he said.

In a world fraught with division and conflict, Castaldo’s art serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity.