On December 26, one of the first murals ever created by Gazan artist, Ismail Matar, was destroyed by Israeli rockets. Hours of hard work and creative street art on the wall of the Yazgi Pepsi Factory were obliterated in seconds. The art that once brought joy and life to the strip is now a pile of rubble. Our hearts go out to Ismail, his friends, family, and the people of Gaza. While the destruction in the area is overwhelming, the resilience and creative resistance of the Palestinian people is beyond inspiring.

Help us unlock HOPE, where hope has been lost.
Before & After Photos Of Ismail's Mural



“Though the bombings destroyed my favorite wall and were far from my home, they were not far from my heart. I am strong. I will make more art.”

- Ismail Matar



If you have any questions or want to become a Bright Stars Ambassador, please contact Kris.

Kris Ducett Wagner
Executive Director

815-703-4127
Kris@BrightStarsBethlehem.org