X-ray, 2007, is comprised of five large-scale black and white diasec prints showing a hand held up with the index and middle finger in the V for Victory sign. And, other fingers are contorted into different shapes or objects. The first one shows the hand with nails through it, pinning it in the V shape. The second has two of the fingers transformed into sensual female legs, while the one next to it has the thumb changed into a dog biting one of the fingers. The fourth shows the fingers morphed into travel suitcases, and the final panel shows the fingers changed into hands that are stretched out for money or aid.

Shomali’s work often incorporates a humorous tone in order to shed light on realities that often go ignored in the broader discussions regarding Palestine. The victory sign implies a win, or a moment of survival, or continued resistance. X-ray is suggesting that inside the ‘body’ of Palestine, and beyond the recurrent images of resilience, endurance, or victory in certain instances, such as Hamas’ controversial electoral win in 2006 and the subsequent withdrawal of much needed international aid, there is a hidden reality.

In this case, the nailed hand with its pinned-up fingers suggests a forced narrative, or even a people’s crucifixion. The woman’s legs image is pointing to the hypocrisy of the hyper conservative and pious facade of possible leaders and broader patriarchal society. The dog biting the same hand is referencing to corruption. The luggage as escape, immigration, and asylum seeking. The panhandling regards the constant need for international aid. Shomali is bringing out, in a tongue in cheek manner, the sociopolitical truths that are rarely discussed in the narratives about Palestinian life.

Titled, dated ("2007"), numbered and inscribed "Printed in Palestine 2016" in English, and signed in Arabic, on reverse of each panel. Polyptych (5 panels)