On 21 November, a unique and remarkable exhibition of art by Israeli and Palestinian children will be launched at the House of Commons. This collection of vibrant and moving paintings was created in the midst of the Intifada, by children divided by religion and beliefs, but drawn together by their fear of conflict and their longing for a peaceful future together.

I imagine that there will be peace so that when I walk down the street I'm not afraid of being kidnapped or beat up. I want peace so that when I walk past them [Palestinians], the fear will disappear, no one would fear each other and that we live in peace without wars" Bar 5th Grade (10yrs old)

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This three year multicultural project was inspired by Kitty O Cohen, Chair of the Institute for the Study of Religions and Communities in Israel and Mohammad Abu Kaf, Director of The East Jerusalem Department of the Social Affairs Branch of the Municipality of Jerusalem, who saw the vital role of the creative arts in nourishing dialogue and mutual respect between communities. At the beginning, the children worked separately, each group expressing their own experience of pain and fear through art. But the day came when they were ready to meet each other, to enjoy joint workshops led by Israeli and Palestinian artists and to see their neighbours and city in a fresh light of hope and peace. The children's paintings trace their emotional journey from fear to friendship, from suspicion to mutual trust. In line colour and collage their paintings capture the reality of life in Jerusalem. Even within the sad and violent scenes, the colours are vivid, projecting the happiness and peace children dream about.

"I was very happy because this is the first time that I cooperate with people from another religion" Firas 6th Grade (11yrs old)

Ben Uri - The London Jewish Museum of Art will be hosting this exhibition from 5 until 23 December in its London gallery. Chairman David Glasser was overwhelmed by the high quality and emotional force of the art which he wanted to bring to a wider audience. He saw that its optimistic message that 'art can build bridges between communities' was today a potent one for multicultural Britain.

"The encounter was good and I enjoyed the time with them - everyone wants peace" Ibrahim, 5th Grade (10 yrs old)

Ben Uri has arranged to bring two Palestinian and two Israeli children from the original group with their respective teachers to London for the week of the Westminster launch commencing 21 November. The aim is for these young people to share their experiences and learning of how art has played a vital role in enabling them to overcome their divisions and make friends across the cultural, religious and political divide. This is the first overseas trip for these young artists and it is a clear demonstration by the families of these 14 year old Palestinian and Israeli children, of their belief and commitment to each other and the message their children bring to other communities.

"When I met the kids from the other group I felt a bit tense and uncomfortable but then I saw that it's not so bad" Omri, 4th Grade (9yrs old)

This art project was implemented jointly by the Institute for the Study of Religions and Communities in Israel and the East Jerusalem Department of the Social Activities Branch in the Jerusalem Municipality with the goal of encouraging and enhancing brotherhood between cultures in Jerusalem. The art teachers involved are Aliza Cohen from the Ramat Moriah Community School and Issam Sabbah from the Paley Centre for the Arts.

The British photo-journalist Lynne Coates whose work documents co-existence projects in Israel will also be on show. Please click here for more information.

Jewish and Arab Women looking at Art

This exhibition and the travel arrangements of the children, their teachers and the 60 works from Israel have been made possible through the generosity of private supporters: Mrs Cheryl Halpern of the USA and ELAL Airlines.

Please click here to read an article published by Israel 121c, website which will give you more information on the background of this exhibition.

All the paintings are the original creations of the children whose names are credited next to each image. As such the Ben Uri Gallery and all agents associated with it fully respect and observe any criteria relating to the copyright that may arise.

Ben Uri Gallery and Museum Limited by guarantee in England and Wales. Company registration No. 1488690. Registered Charity No. 280389. Registered Museum No. 973