Hazem Alqaddi is a Palestinian artist and filmmaker whose work explores themes of resilience, freedom, and identity. Born and raised in Gaza, Hazem graduated from UNRWA Schools in Rafah before moving to Belgium in 2018, where he began building a new life beyond the constraints of a besieged homeland. His creative journey has led him to experiment with multiple forms of expression, including rollerblading, kite-making, and storytelling, each playing a significant role in his artistic practice.

In 2019, Hazem discovered filmmaking as a powerful means of connecting with others and sharing his experiences. His debut film, Old Child (2020) was screened internationally, and his recent documentary, The Roller, the Life, the Fight (2023) won two awards at Cinema du Réel in 2024, gaining recognition for its candid portrayal of resilience amid adversity. Hazem’s films have further been selected for festivals across Europe, including Belgium, where he currently resides. Hazem brings his heritage to life through kitemaking, a craft he learned in Gaza that symbolizes creativity and the pursuit of freedom. He has conducted kite-making workshops across Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, sharing his knowledge and inspiring others to tell their own stories through this ancient art. His movies evolve by carrying his camera everywhere, recording moments and stories that unfold around him and that are often very intimate. Hazem invites audiences to experience the depths of his personal journey, challenging perceptions, fostering empathy, and bridging cultural divides in a rapidly changing world.

Residency project :

"Poetic Anger" - research on anger