{BOWLS}

Growing up in Bethlehem, I was surrounded by objects made of olivewood. I could look into the wood workshops whenever I wandered through the old city, seeing the artisans sitting at their tables carving blocks of wood into objects and figurines. Due to the availability of olive tree groves, woodcarving is a thriving practice, with year-round production of objects for both local and export markets. As my interest in crafts and local materials expanded, I developed a strong desire to explore olivewood and work within the industry that I had grown up witnessing. For some time, it seemed outdated to me due to the abundance and repetition of the same objects, or perhaps it was an expression of heritage that was less stimulating to me. Nonetheless, I found joy in simple functional items like salad bowls, serving utensils, honey dippers, and others with sleek design and minimal ornaments, all serving a clear function. 

The tradition of olivewood carving and woodworking in Bethlehem dates back to the 4th century AD, when Christian priests settled in the area and began carving religious icons and other objects using olivewood. This practice has been passed down through the generations and remains an important part of the cultural identity and economy of the city. Despite the challenges due to political and economic instability in the area, many artisans continue to work with olivewood. In fact, during the 2023-2024 war, olivewood from the north of Palestine was unavailable and nearly impossible to find in the area of Bethlehem due to the massive restriction of movement between cities. With a region that has little local resources, olivewood presents itself with great potential to the local industries. It stands out for its softness, making it easier to carve compared to other woods. With prominent grains, it showcases abundant character, which can be the reason for both appreciating or disliking it.