Preserve

In May 2022, Preserve by Baha Hilo commenced on the Dar Jacir olive terraces. This project is focusing on preserving and repairing the olive terraces and the historic olive trees on our land. Additional olive trees will be planted in the winter as well as other trees that are natural protectors of the olive trees from insects (fig trees). The project comprises a series of lectures, workshops, and gatherings based in the terrace, including participating in the olive harvest (November 2022).  We are also experimenting with companion plants that have been historically used to enrich the soil around the trees. For example, eggplant was interplanted amongst the olive trees to try to bring much needed nitrogen.

Baha gave an artist talk and discussion on Friday October 14th at 4 pm at Dar Jacir. The talk was held in English and Arabic. Baha discussed his current project at Dar Jacir’s olive terrace and the significance of olive trees, historically and today, covering four broad themes – culture, economics, religion, and politics. He also discussed the importance of the olive tree as a symbol of Palestinian sumud (“resistance and steadfastness”). The talk served as an introduction to the olive harvest at Dar Jacir, and the following day (October 15th), everyone was invited to join the olive harvest. Following the harvest, Baha led the group in preserving and pickling the olives and making olive oil.