“Homeland Denied (Return to Sender),” a print created by Jacek Yerka in 1979, is a quintessential work from the Surrealism art movement. The artwork, presented as a poster, encapsulates a poignant message that amalgamates geopolitical themes with surrealist elements.
The artwork features an envelope design typically used for air mail, bordered in red, white, and blue, and stamped with a postal mark. At its center, the word “PALESTINE” is prominently displayed. Additionally, there is a conspicuous stamp marking that reads “RETURN TO SENDER NO SUCH ADDRESS” overlaying the text. To the upper right corner of the envelope, a United Nations postage stamp is visible, alongside the Star of David. The entire presentation attaches profound socio-political connotations, subtly referencing the complex and often contentious historical and territorial discussions surrounding Palestine. The surreal nature of juxtaposing postal elements with symbolic representations enhances the thought-provoking narrative embodied by the poster.
