Born in Umm al-Fahm in 1982, Karim Abu Shakra grew up in a family renowned for its passion for art and creativity. He was especially influenced by his late uncle, Asim Abu Shakra, whose work and encouragement played a central role in shaping his artistic path. Drawing on fragments of childhood memories, Karim’s art reflects his deep connection to nature and his surroundings.
Karim’s body of work can be read as an ongoing autobiography, blending memory, place, and inner vision. Over the years, he has exhibited widely in Palestine and abroad. His solo exhibitions include The Endurance of Cactus at Gallery One, Ramallah (2015); Unity of Man, Nature and Animal at Umm al-Fahm Art Gallery (2015); Childhood Memories at Jaffa Salon of Palestinian Art (2012); and Black and White at the Palestinian National Theatre, Jerusalem (2009), among others.
He has also participated in numerous group exhibitions, such as Faces… A Glimpse in Time at Palestinian Art Court – al Hoash, East Jerusalem (2014); Ostraka Symposiums, Sharm al-Sheikh, Egypt (2011); and Etre Né(e) Nu(e)/DESIdeRata, Memory of the Future, Paris, France (2008).