Rooted in Resilience: The Coloring Book

Rooted in Resilience Coloring Book – By Artist Hamza Abu Ayyash

As the creator behind Rooted in Resilience , I poured my heart into every line, curve, and verse of this coloring book — a personal extension of the monumental public artwork that now graces the façade of Viernulvier in Ghent, Belgium. This project is not just an artistic endeavor; it’s a statement of solidarity, identity, and cultural endurance.

Originally conceived as a 500-square-meter installation covering the scaffolding of De Vooruit during its renovation, Rooted in Resilience was created in early 2025 by me, Hamza Abu Ayyash , a Palestinian artist based in Jordan who calls Ghent “my home in Europe.” The work draws inspiration from Ghassan Zaqtan ’s poignant poem “By Force of Habit” , blending powerful visual symbolism with poetic reflection.

The artwork features striking poppies — symbols of remembrance and resilience — intertwined with calligraphic elements that echo themes of perseverance, living under oppression, and the enduring strength of communities fighting for justice and dignity.

Now, through this coloring book, you are invited to step inside that story.

About the Coloring Experience

Each page of Rooted in Resilience is a hand-drawn masterpiece that fuses calligraffiti — a dynamic mix of Arabic calligraphy and street art — with intricate floral motifs and poetic verses. These illustrations reflect the emotional depth of the original mural while offering a meditative, creative experience.

Whether you’re an artist, poet, activist, or someone seeking peace through creativity, this coloring book provides a space to reflect, connect, and color your truth. It’s more than just art — it’s a journey through resistance, culture, and hope.

External Links:

• Viernulvier Installs Ghent’s Largest Artwork – Official Page
• Rooted in Resilience – Viernulvier Collection
• HLN Article: Artwork Asks Attention for Gaza
• Musiczine Interview – About the Project

If you would like to have a printed version of the coloring book, please visit Amazon.