Jerusalem Hosts Debut of 'Faces of October 7' Exhibition

In a poignant and deeply moving tribute, Israeli graffiti artist Benzi Brofman has unveiled a new exhibition in Jerusalem, “Faces of October 7,” commemorating the victims of the tragic Hamas massacre. Brofman, who had been painting murals at the Nova music festival just hours before the horrific attack, has poured his heart into honoring those who lost their lives, including many festivalgoers, soldiers, and hostages still held in Gaza.

Launched ahead of the one-year anniversary of the deadliest attack on Jews since the Holocaust, this exhibition is not only a showcase of nearly 100 powerful portraits but also a personal mission for Brofman. “Life had it that I would be there at the site, and at the same time life brought me home alive,” he shared.

The exhibition, housed at the Jerusalem offices of Stand With Us, an Israel advocacy group, was inaugurated with the attendance of bereaved families. Open through the end of October, the exhibition will also be livestreamed for global audiences. Michael Dickson, executive director of Stand With Us Israel, described the event as a moment of reflection: “This exhibition creates a space for people to take a moment and look back and remember this grim anniversary.”

The global community is expected to take part in this remembrance, with thousands anticipated to visit in person and hundreds of thousands more engaging with the exhibit online. Dubai-based philanthropist Eitan Neishlos, who partnered with Stand With Us to bring the event to life, made it clear that this exhibit aims to ensure the world does not forget the atrocities committed on Oct. 7. “We will not stop advocating, speaking, posting, initiating until the entire world knows what the evil Hamas terrorists did to our people,” he stated.

With over 1,200 civilians murdered in the massacre including 364 at the music festival the tragedy has left deep scars on the Israeli people. The exhibition not only reflects their grief but also serves as a counter to the global denial and distortion that has followed the massacre, echoing the denial that still surrounds the Holocaust.

Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Israel’s Special Envoy for Trade and Innovation, emphasized the lingering trauma. “The disgraceful celebration and denial of what has been done to our people is not just post-trauma but re-trauma,” she said. Her words echoed the thoughts of many attendees, including Ilan Gilboa-Dalal, whose son Guy is one of the 101 Israelis still being held hostage in Gaza.

As this exhibition stands as a testament to the humanity behind the victims, it also calls on the world to remember and act. Visitors are invited to witness this moving display and reflect on the cost of terror, while helping to spread awareness of the ongoing struggle against those who deny the truth.

Israel remains committed to honoring its victims and defending its people. Share this powerful story, and stay informed by subscribing to our newsletter.