Golda

Story Behind the Art

This piece began with one of Golda Meir's most enduring quotes:

"We Jews have a secret weapon in our struggle with the Arabs; we have no place to go."

Whether reflecting resilience, vulnerability, or both, those words have echoed through generations of Israeli history.

The painting itself is a prayer for peace.

At the top, Shalom (peace) is written in ancient Hebrew script, like those of the Torah. Around it, fragments of words appear in both English and Hebrew. Some remain visible, while others disappear beneath the paint, much like the stories and voices that continue to shape Israel today.

The blues and turquoise reflect hope and life; the Mediterranean, the Israeli landscape, and a nation that continues to flourish despite conflict. The gold represents something enduring: faith, resilience, and the belief that peace is always worth striving for.

Golda Meir, Israel's first and, to date, only female Prime Minister, led the country from 1969 to 1974. She remains one of Israel's most debated leaders, often remembered as its "Iron Lady".

This painting is not about celebrating or criticising her leadership. Instead, it is a reminder that beyond politics, and beyond those who lead us, the hope for peace remains.