Art for sale
Works for sale by artists with lived experience of forced migration. Some artists are based in the UK, others in Greece or elsewhere in Europe. We work with artists in several different ways; by selling works on their behalf, by commissioning new work for our collection or by helping removing barriers to creative practice, such as lack of equipment or materials.
Valley by Qusay (Iraq)Acrylic on canvas, 60x40cm
£165 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Qusay is from Tikrit, Iraq and enjoyed drawing from a young age. At 14, Qusay stopped attending school after his father abandoned the family and Qusay took on the role of provider for his mother and siblings. Qusay worked many odd jobs, including painting interiors.
Qusay is currently living in a camp in Chios, Greece. He says life in the camp is stressful, monotonous and trying. “I feel like I’m in a cage. I do not feel free.” However when he is painting, “I feel like I have a new life. I feel like I am receiving a gift from God.”
£165 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Qusay is from Tikrit, Iraq and enjoyed drawing from a young age. At 14, Qusay stopped attending school after his father abandoned the family and Qusay took on the role of provider for his mother and siblings. Qusay worked many odd jobs, including painting interiors.
Qusay is currently living in a camp in Chios, Greece. He says life in the camp is stressful, monotonous and trying. “I feel like I’m in a cage. I do not feel free.” However when he is painting, “I feel like I have a new life. I feel like I am receiving a gift from God.”
Untitled, Hamed S (Afghanistan)Acrylic on canvas, 50x40.5cm
£199 + postage & packing
Artist biography
“When I am making art, I feel like I am talking with the universe.”
Hamed arrived in Greece when he was fifteen, after fleeing the ongoing violence and unrest in Afghanistan. He has been granted asylum in Greece.
Hamed created his first piece of art in Greece not long after arriving in the country. His newly developed skills have been applied to painting, sketching, film-making, photography and writing stories and scripts. His wish is for his art to invoke emotion in those who view it, rather to simply please aesthetically.
£199 + postage & packing
Artist biography
“When I am making art, I feel like I am talking with the universe.”
Hamed arrived in Greece when he was fifteen, after fleeing the ongoing violence and unrest in Afghanistan. He has been granted asylum in Greece.
Hamed created his first piece of art in Greece not long after arriving in the country. His newly developed skills have been applied to painting, sketching, film-making, photography and writing stories and scripts. His wish is for his art to invoke emotion in those who view it, rather to simply please aesthetically.
Untitled, Othman (Syria)Acrylic on canvas, 50x40cm
£249 + postage & packing
Artist biography
In Syria, Othman was an accomplished artist but was forced to leave everything behind when he fled the country. Art helped to sustain him emotionally and financially during very difficult times in Greece.
Othman uses art to express the frustration and sadness of being estranged from his home in Syria. He provided other residents in the Greek camps with art lessons and emotional support to encourage the use of art to tell their stories too.
While fleeing Syria, two of Othman's children became separated and made it to Switzerland. After two years, the family were recently granted reunification and now live together in Switzerland.
£249 + postage & packing
Artist biography
In Syria, Othman was an accomplished artist but was forced to leave everything behind when he fled the country. Art helped to sustain him emotionally and financially during very difficult times in Greece.
Othman uses art to express the frustration and sadness of being estranged from his home in Syria. He provided other residents in the Greek camps with art lessons and emotional support to encourage the use of art to tell their stories too.
While fleeing Syria, two of Othman's children became separated and made it to Switzerland. After two years, the family were recently granted reunification and now live together in Switzerland.
Woman, by Mehdi (Iran)Acrylic on canvas, 50x40cm
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Mehdi was an electrical engineer in Iran. He has been interested in art throughout his life and opened a small gallery in Iran, but it was closed by the government as they believed his art, which frequently comments on the hardships and restrictions faced by women in Iran, to be inappropriate and offensive. He was threatened with imprisonment and fled the country.
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Mehdi was an electrical engineer in Iran. He has been interested in art throughout his life and opened a small gallery in Iran, but it was closed by the government as they believed his art, which frequently comments on the hardships and restrictions faced by women in Iran, to be inappropriate and offensive. He was threatened with imprisonment and fled the country.
Dancer by Jamil K (Afghanistan)Acrylic on canvas, 50x35cm
£249 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Jamil arrived in Greece with his younger brother when he was sixteen; they lived in one of the camps until being moved to a home for unaccompanied minors.
Until arriving in Greece, Jamil had no experience of painting. A social worker in the camp noticed his talent and helped to secure him a full scholarship with a school run by a Greek artist. His work is characterised by the use of vibrant colours, as he “likes the brightness of the world.”
Jamil and his brother have been granted 5 years’ asylum in Greece. He uses art to pay their day to day living expenses.
£249 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Jamil arrived in Greece with his younger brother when he was sixteen; they lived in one of the camps until being moved to a home for unaccompanied minors.
Until arriving in Greece, Jamil had no experience of painting. A social worker in the camp noticed his talent and helped to secure him a full scholarship with a school run by a Greek artist. His work is characterised by the use of vibrant colours, as he “likes the brightness of the world.”
Jamil and his brother have been granted 5 years’ asylum in Greece. He uses art to pay their day to day living expenses.
Portrait by Othman (Syria)Acrylic on canvas, 60x40cm
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
In Syria, Othman was an accomplished artist but was forced to leave everything behind when he fled the country. Art helped to sustain him emotionally and financially during the very difficult times in Greece.
Othmas uses art to express the frustration and sadness of being estranged from his home in Syria. He provided other residents in the Greek camps with art lessons and emotional support to encourage the use of art to tell their stories.
Othman and his family were forced to flee Syria; two of his children became separated during the journey and made it to Switzerland. After two years, the family were recently granted reunification and now live together in Switzerland.
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
In Syria, Othman was an accomplished artist but was forced to leave everything behind when he fled the country. Art helped to sustain him emotionally and financially during the very difficult times in Greece.
Othmas uses art to express the frustration and sadness of being estranged from his home in Syria. He provided other residents in the Greek camps with art lessons and emotional support to encourage the use of art to tell their stories.
Othman and his family were forced to flee Syria; two of his children became separated during the journey and made it to Switzerland. After two years, the family were recently granted reunification and now live together in Switzerland.
Cosmos by Ahmed Z (Syria)Acrylic on canvas, 60x40cm
£349 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Ahmed is from Al Raqaa, Syria. He escaped the war in Syria and has been living in Greece since then with his son. His wife, younger daughter and younger son were not able to get out of Syria.
In Syria, Ahmed practiced both civil and criminal law. He developed an interest in painting and studied at the Art Institute in Al Raqaa for two years. Now, he relies on his paintings to sustain him financially as he awaits a decision on his asylum claim in Greece. Ahmed shared that it is difficult to depend on others for survival. “In Syria, I used to work and support all people around me.” Not being able to do so since he left his home country is very challenging for him.
Ahmed's art is often inspired by his country’s history and civilisation. He takes pride in sharing these images with the world.
£349 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Ahmed is from Al Raqaa, Syria. He escaped the war in Syria and has been living in Greece since then with his son. His wife, younger daughter and younger son were not able to get out of Syria.
In Syria, Ahmed practiced both civil and criminal law. He developed an interest in painting and studied at the Art Institute in Al Raqaa for two years. Now, he relies on his paintings to sustain him financially as he awaits a decision on his asylum claim in Greece. Ahmed shared that it is difficult to depend on others for survival. “In Syria, I used to work and support all people around me.” Not being able to do so since he left his home country is very challenging for him.
Ahmed's art is often inspired by his country’s history and civilisation. He takes pride in sharing these images with the world.
Untitled by Ahmed Z (Syria)Acrylic on canvas, 50x40cm
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Ahmed is from Al Raqaa, Syria. He escaped the war in Syria and has been living in Greece since then with his son. His wife, younger daughter and younger son were not able to get out of Syria.
In Syria, Ahmed practiced both civil and criminal law. He developed an interest in painting and studied at the Art Institute in Al Raqaa for two years. Now, he relies on his paintings to sustain him financially as he awaits a decision on his asylum claim in Greece. Ahmed shared that it is difficult to depend on others for survival. “In Syria, I used to work and support all people around me.” Not being able to do so since he left his home country is very challenging for him.
Ahmed's art is often inspired by his country’s history and civilisation. He takes pride in sharing these images with the world.
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Ahmed is from Al Raqaa, Syria. He escaped the war in Syria and has been living in Greece since then with his son. His wife, younger daughter and younger son were not able to get out of Syria.
In Syria, Ahmed practiced both civil and criminal law. He developed an interest in painting and studied at the Art Institute in Al Raqaa for two years. Now, he relies on his paintings to sustain him financially as he awaits a decision on his asylum claim in Greece. Ahmed shared that it is difficult to depend on others for survival. “In Syria, I used to work and support all people around me.” Not being able to do so since he left his home country is very challenging for him.
Ahmed's art is often inspired by his country’s history and civilisation. He takes pride in sharing these images with the world.
Boot House by Kawa (Syria)Acrylic on canvas, 40x40cm
£219 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Kawa began drawing in his childhood and studied drawing at an institute of fine arts in Hasakah while working as a decorator. His art has been featured in several exhibitions.
In 2013 Kawa and his family fled the war in Syria and went to Iraq. He spent three years among the 100,000 Syrian refugees living in camps in Northern Iraq. He arrived in Greece on 19 March 2016 - just one day before the borders closed. He felt stuck in Greece, but started doing art again and has since participated in more than 10 exhibitions in Europe. In September 2017 Kawa and his family were able to leave Greece for Germany.
About his journey, Kawa said “We were so tired after crossing borders, seas and mountains. My son Marius broke his skull on the way. We suffered a lot.”
£219 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Kawa began drawing in his childhood and studied drawing at an institute of fine arts in Hasakah while working as a decorator. His art has been featured in several exhibitions.
In 2013 Kawa and his family fled the war in Syria and went to Iraq. He spent three years among the 100,000 Syrian refugees living in camps in Northern Iraq. He arrived in Greece on 19 March 2016 - just one day before the borders closed. He felt stuck in Greece, but started doing art again and has since participated in more than 10 exhibitions in Europe. In September 2017 Kawa and his family were able to leave Greece for Germany.
About his journey, Kawa said “We were so tired after crossing borders, seas and mountains. My son Marius broke his skull on the way. We suffered a lot.”
Portrait by Mehdi (Iran)Acrylic on canvas, 50x40cm
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Mehdi was an electrical engineer in Iran. He has been interested in art throughout his life and opened a small gallery in Iran, but it was closed by the government as they believed his art, which frequently comments on the hardships and restrictions faced by women in Iran, to be inappropriate and offensive. He was threatened with imprisonment and fled the country.
£299 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Mehdi was an electrical engineer in Iran. He has been interested in art throughout his life and opened a small gallery in Iran, but it was closed by the government as they believed his art, which frequently comments on the hardships and restrictions faced by women in Iran, to be inappropriate and offensive. He was threatened with imprisonment and fled the country.
Music by Neba (Cameroon)Acrylic on canvas, 50x35cm
£215 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Neba lives in Vial camp on the Greek island of Chios. Although meant to house only 1,000 people, the camp currently houses around 3,000.
Neba describes life in Cameroon as “violent, aggressive, and politically hostile.”
“I come from a family blessed with creativity,” says Neba. His family included several amateur artists and encouraged his interest in art from a young age.
He hopes that his art “brightens the faces of mankind and drives away the sorrow and pain, creating a nursing ground for hope.”
£215 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Neba lives in Vial camp on the Greek island of Chios. Although meant to house only 1,000 people, the camp currently houses around 3,000.
Neba describes life in Cameroon as “violent, aggressive, and politically hostile.”
“I come from a family blessed with creativity,” says Neba. His family included several amateur artists and encouraged his interest in art from a young age.
He hopes that his art “brightens the faces of mankind and drives away the sorrow and pain, creating a nursing ground for hope.”
The Women by Neba (Cameroon)Acrylic on canvas, 50x40cm
£225 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Neba lives in Vial camp on the Greek island of Chios. Although meant to house only 1,000 people, the camp currently houses around 3,000.
Neba describes life in Cameroon as “violent, aggressive, and politically hostile.”
“I come from a family blessed with creativity,” says Neba. His family included several amateur artists and encouraged his interest in art from a young age.
He hopes that his art “brightens the faces of mankind and drives away the sorrow and pain, creating a nursing ground for hope.”
£225 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Neba lives in Vial camp on the Greek island of Chios. Although meant to house only 1,000 people, the camp currently houses around 3,000.
Neba describes life in Cameroon as “violent, aggressive, and politically hostile.”
“I come from a family blessed with creativity,” says Neba. His family included several amateur artists and encouraged his interest in art from a young age.
He hopes that his art “brightens the faces of mankind and drives away the sorrow and pain, creating a nursing ground for hope.”
Floral Scene by Abdulazez (Syria)Acrylic on canvas, 45x35cm
£149 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Abdulazez was a university professor in Syria before fleeing the war with his family. Nicknamed “The Professor”, he has lived in Nea Kavala camp alone for over a year. He was separated from his wife and four children, who made it to Germany before the borders closed. He misses them profoundly and hopes to be permitted to reunite with them one day soon.
The Professor's work includes landscape art and depictions of the dramatic Syrian struggle. He has exhibited his work in art shows in both Syria and Kuwait.
“Art gives me a sense of beauty. It allows me to live in a world of beauty, away from life’s problems.” Abdulazez shares his art supplies with other residents of the camp. He also helps facilitate art classes for the children of the camp.
£149 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Abdulazez was a university professor in Syria before fleeing the war with his family. Nicknamed “The Professor”, he has lived in Nea Kavala camp alone for over a year. He was separated from his wife and four children, who made it to Germany before the borders closed. He misses them profoundly and hopes to be permitted to reunite with them one day soon.
The Professor's work includes landscape art and depictions of the dramatic Syrian struggle. He has exhibited his work in art shows in both Syria and Kuwait.
“Art gives me a sense of beauty. It allows me to live in a world of beauty, away from life’s problems.” Abdulazez shares his art supplies with other residents of the camp. He also helps facilitate art classes for the children of the camp.
Sussex Prairies by Jean-Paul Waroma, Democratic Republic of CongoAcrylic on canvas, 30x40cm
£129 + postage & packing
This painting was inspired by photos from Sussex Prairies.
Artist biography
Jean-Paul is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he worked in ceramics, oil painting, calligraphy and plastic cculpture. He studied at the Academie des Beaux Artes, where he gained a BA in Art Realism and a qualification in Plastic Arts. In the DRC he had his own art studio, where he gained a reputation as a beloved and inspirational teacher.
He was asked by the opposition party to create protest art and was imprisoned as a result. He risked his life to escape and flew to Istanbul, where he took a boat to Lesvos and spent nine months in the Moria refugee camp. His wife and four children are still in the DRC.
While in the Moria camp, Jean-Paul took the opportunity to both paint and teach art with two local projects - The Hope Project and Artolution.
Jean-Paul says “I’ve been painting ever since my mother put me in baby bunting! Painting makes me feel happy, but it is also how I deal with the sadness of my journey. I know I am stronger for crossing all these countries to come here to Greece. I feel better when I express the difficulties I’ve passed through. It has given me a real energy inside - a whole courage from these experiences. I want to express the sadness that refugees feel. I’m the type of person who describes myself - my thoughts and feelings - through my art. I like to paint children. So many children are so sad; I like to make them happy. Back in Congo I would gather the children from the streets and teach them art, and it did my heart good!”
£129 + postage & packing
This painting was inspired by photos from Sussex Prairies.
Artist biography
Jean-Paul is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he worked in ceramics, oil painting, calligraphy and plastic cculpture. He studied at the Academie des Beaux Artes, where he gained a BA in Art Realism and a qualification in Plastic Arts. In the DRC he had his own art studio, where he gained a reputation as a beloved and inspirational teacher.
He was asked by the opposition party to create protest art and was imprisoned as a result. He risked his life to escape and flew to Istanbul, where he took a boat to Lesvos and spent nine months in the Moria refugee camp. His wife and four children are still in the DRC.
While in the Moria camp, Jean-Paul took the opportunity to both paint and teach art with two local projects - The Hope Project and Artolution.
Jean-Paul says “I’ve been painting ever since my mother put me in baby bunting! Painting makes me feel happy, but it is also how I deal with the sadness of my journey. I know I am stronger for crossing all these countries to come here to Greece. I feel better when I express the difficulties I’ve passed through. It has given me a real energy inside - a whole courage from these experiences. I want to express the sadness that refugees feel. I’m the type of person who describes myself - my thoughts and feelings - through my art. I like to paint children. So many children are so sad; I like to make them happy. Back in Congo I would gather the children from the streets and teach them art, and it did my heart good!”
Sunset by Qusay, IraqAcrylic on canvas, 30x40cm
£129 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Qusay is from Tikrit, Iraq. He enjoyed drawing from a young age; his mother told him that the first sign of his artistic ability was at three years old. Qusay remembers that drawing was his sole passion growing up as a child in Iraq.
When he was 16, his father abandoned the family and Qusay took on the role of provider for his mother and siblings. He worked many odd jobs, including painting interiors.
Qusay is currently living in a camp in Chios, Greece. He says life in the camp is stressful, monotonous and trying. “I feel like I’m in a cage. I do not feel free.” However when he is painting he says “I feel good, I feel free. I feel like I have a new life. I feel like I am receiving a gift from God.”
£129 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Qusay is from Tikrit, Iraq. He enjoyed drawing from a young age; his mother told him that the first sign of his artistic ability was at three years old. Qusay remembers that drawing was his sole passion growing up as a child in Iraq.
When he was 16, his father abandoned the family and Qusay took on the role of provider for his mother and siblings. He worked many odd jobs, including painting interiors.
Qusay is currently living in a camp in Chios, Greece. He says life in the camp is stressful, monotonous and trying. “I feel like I’m in a cage. I do not feel free.” However when he is painting he says “I feel good, I feel free. I feel like I have a new life. I feel like I am receiving a gift from God.”
Happy Butterfly by Cederick Tuzolana DiavovaAcrylic on canvas, 30x40cm
£129 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Cedrick is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he was asked by his church to produce a flyer for their strike protesting the government’s fraudulent voting machines. Consequently, he was forced to flee to Istanbul and took a rubber raft to the island of Lesvos. His mother is still in the Congo, with his two children.
Cedrick studied at the Academie Des Beaux Artes, specialising in wood sculpture, oil painting, ceramics and metal. His favourite medium is metal and his speciality is designing decorative iron gates, stairs, windows and doors.
Cedrick says “When I paint, I feel encouraged and happy and free from the problems in my country. Being here in Greece, I feel protected. I enjoy painting animals - I love to see how well the animals are treated in this country. Pigeons fly freely in the streets of Athens, unlike in my country where they fly in fear of being eaten.”
It was one of Cedrick’s five brothers who inspired him to start painting and enabled him to study with a wonderful teacher - the daughter of the Master Painter of Congo, Master Liyolo.
His desire to paint comes from the things he sees: “When I see something, I want to paint it!”
£129 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Cedrick is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he was asked by his church to produce a flyer for their strike protesting the government’s fraudulent voting machines. Consequently, he was forced to flee to Istanbul and took a rubber raft to the island of Lesvos. His mother is still in the Congo, with his two children.
Cedrick studied at the Academie Des Beaux Artes, specialising in wood sculpture, oil painting, ceramics and metal. His favourite medium is metal and his speciality is designing decorative iron gates, stairs, windows and doors.
Cedrick says “When I paint, I feel encouraged and happy and free from the problems in my country. Being here in Greece, I feel protected. I enjoy painting animals - I love to see how well the animals are treated in this country. Pigeons fly freely in the streets of Athens, unlike in my country where they fly in fear of being eaten.”
It was one of Cedrick’s five brothers who inspired him to start painting and enabled him to study with a wonderful teacher - the daughter of the Master Painter of Congo, Master Liyolo.
His desire to paint comes from the things he sees: “When I see something, I want to paint it!”
Look At Us by Obaid, YemenAcrylic on canvas, 60x40cm
£259 + postage & packing
“Attention please!
We all like to attract others’ attention to us, whether we’re talented, or if we’ve accomplished something, or maybe we need help. In this world we ignore so much because of our preoccupation with our mobile phones and material things. We become superficial people and we don’t pay attention to the beauty around us and what’s inside everyone, the beauty they have. And we don’t pay attention to the suffering of others, as we dont see what’s around us. The flowers need to attract attention, LOOK AT US.”
Artist biography
“My name is Obaid, a professional sculptor, architect and visual artist from Yemen. When I was seven, I began creating drawings and paintings with my sisters. The three of us grew up encouraging, teaching and learning from each other. We all studied different crafts of art at university. I received a Bachelor's degree in architecture, partly inspired by da Vinci´s brilliance to intertwine art with science.
Throughout the early stages of the war, I stayed in Yemen as a teacher and activist and doing all in power to stand up for my country which was becoming more lost by the day. But, like so many thousands of others like me, it was my art and my activism that finally also forced me to leave, or face death.
Throughout my life and my journey, I have learned there are several instruments of our humanity that can be used to help achieve peace; The most important of all of these I consider to be Art. Any type of artistic creation is capable of carrying the messages of humanitarianism, politics and basic civil rights to everyone in the world. In my art, I try to use a wide variety of materials to represent that all of us are capable of coming together to create the foundation which will establish the true image of what we wish our world to be.
I am continually creating my new life, and hope soon I will find enough stability and success to free my family from the war and dangers in Yemen. Artistically, my life's goal is to create the world's largest mural. My hope is this project be a representation of the power and ability we all have to unite in solidarity, to force attention to the calls of peace and unity among all people, cultures and nations, and inspire us all to understand the precious relationship not only between each other but with our natural world and environment as well.”
£259 + postage & packing
“Attention please!
We all like to attract others’ attention to us, whether we’re talented, or if we’ve accomplished something, or maybe we need help. In this world we ignore so much because of our preoccupation with our mobile phones and material things. We become superficial people and we don’t pay attention to the beauty around us and what’s inside everyone, the beauty they have. And we don’t pay attention to the suffering of others, as we dont see what’s around us. The flowers need to attract attention, LOOK AT US.”
Artist biography
“My name is Obaid, a professional sculptor, architect and visual artist from Yemen. When I was seven, I began creating drawings and paintings with my sisters. The three of us grew up encouraging, teaching and learning from each other. We all studied different crafts of art at university. I received a Bachelor's degree in architecture, partly inspired by da Vinci´s brilliance to intertwine art with science.
Throughout the early stages of the war, I stayed in Yemen as a teacher and activist and doing all in power to stand up for my country which was becoming more lost by the day. But, like so many thousands of others like me, it was my art and my activism that finally also forced me to leave, or face death.
Throughout my life and my journey, I have learned there are several instruments of our humanity that can be used to help achieve peace; The most important of all of these I consider to be Art. Any type of artistic creation is capable of carrying the messages of humanitarianism, politics and basic civil rights to everyone in the world. In my art, I try to use a wide variety of materials to represent that all of us are capable of coming together to create the foundation which will establish the true image of what we wish our world to be.
I am continually creating my new life, and hope soon I will find enough stability and success to free my family from the war and dangers in Yemen. Artistically, my life's goal is to create the world's largest mural. My hope is this project be a representation of the power and ability we all have to unite in solidarity, to force attention to the calls of peace and unity among all people, cultures and nations, and inspire us all to understand the precious relationship not only between each other but with our natural world and environment as well.”
Conversation by Obaid, YemenAcrylic on canvas, 40x30cm
£179 + postage & packing
“There is a conversation that occurs between two stages of the growth of flowers, which represent our brains and mentality - how the more time passes our awareness grows and the beauty of our thinking and our vision of the future. Even though we’re going through a difficult phase, we’re going to be as beautiful as this flower, the desire to live and live freely.”
Artist biography
“My name is Obaid, a professional sculptor, architect and visual artist from Yemen. When I was seven, I began creating drawings and paintings with my sisters. The three of us grew up encouraging, teaching and learning from each other. We all studied different crafts of art at university. I received a Bachelor's degree in architecture, partly inspired by da Vinci´s brilliance to intertwine art with science.
Throughout the early stages of the war, I stayed in Yemen as a teacher and activist and doing all in power to stand up for my country which was becoming more lost by the day. But, like so many thousands of others like me, it was my art and my activism that finally also forced me to leave, or face death.
Throughout my life and my journey, I have learned there are several instruments of our humanity that can be used to help achieve peace; The most important of all of these I consider to be Art. Any type of artistic creation is capable of carrying the messages of humanitarianism, politics and basic civil rights to everyone in the world. In my art, I try to use a wide variety of materials to represent that all of us are capable of coming together to create the foundation which will establish the true image of what we wish our world to be.
I am continually creating my new life, and hope soon I will find enough stability and success to free my family from the war and dangers in Yemen. Artistically, my life's goal is to create the world's largest mural. My hope is this project be a representation of the power and ability we all have to unite in solidarity, to force attention to the calls of peace and unity among all people, cultures and nations, and inspire us all to understand the precious relationship not only between each other but with our natural world and environment as well.”
£179 + postage & packing
“There is a conversation that occurs between two stages of the growth of flowers, which represent our brains and mentality - how the more time passes our awareness grows and the beauty of our thinking and our vision of the future. Even though we’re going through a difficult phase, we’re going to be as beautiful as this flower, the desire to live and live freely.”
Artist biography
“My name is Obaid, a professional sculptor, architect and visual artist from Yemen. When I was seven, I began creating drawings and paintings with my sisters. The three of us grew up encouraging, teaching and learning from each other. We all studied different crafts of art at university. I received a Bachelor's degree in architecture, partly inspired by da Vinci´s brilliance to intertwine art with science.
Throughout the early stages of the war, I stayed in Yemen as a teacher and activist and doing all in power to stand up for my country which was becoming more lost by the day. But, like so many thousands of others like me, it was my art and my activism that finally also forced me to leave, or face death.
Throughout my life and my journey, I have learned there are several instruments of our humanity that can be used to help achieve peace; The most important of all of these I consider to be Art. Any type of artistic creation is capable of carrying the messages of humanitarianism, politics and basic civil rights to everyone in the world. In my art, I try to use a wide variety of materials to represent that all of us are capable of coming together to create the foundation which will establish the true image of what we wish our world to be.
I am continually creating my new life, and hope soon I will find enough stability and success to free my family from the war and dangers in Yemen. Artistically, my life's goal is to create the world's largest mural. My hope is this project be a representation of the power and ability we all have to unite in solidarity, to force attention to the calls of peace and unity among all people, cultures and nations, and inspire us all to understand the precious relationship not only between each other but with our natural world and environment as well.”
The Beauties of Life by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 30x40cm
£89 + postage & packing
“Life is beautiful with all its problems. Just look at nature for a scent of heaven.”
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I’m 28 years old. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived to Greece on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm.
I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
£89 + postage & packing
“Life is beautiful with all its problems. Just look at nature for a scent of heaven.”
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I’m 28 years old. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived to Greece on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm.
I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Poppies by Olivia Armelle, CameroonAcrylic on canvas, 40x30cm
£79 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Olivia arrived in Greece from Cameroon in November 2017 and currently lives in Athens. When she first arrived in Greece, on Chios island, she was pregnant with twins; she was later transferred to Athens to deliver her babies on an emergency basis. She is now awaiting the decision on her asylum application in Greece. All of her family is in Cameroon.
Before coming to Greece, Olivia worked in a bookshop. She started making art when she came to Greece and learned about the Love Without Borders program. Her work is inspired by the art of others, by nature and also by her surroundings.
When not creating art or taking care of her babies, she loves to cook. Her dream is to have a good job and take care of herself and her children.
£79 + postage & packing
Artist biography
Olivia arrived in Greece from Cameroon in November 2017 and currently lives in Athens. When she first arrived in Greece, on Chios island, she was pregnant with twins; she was later transferred to Athens to deliver her babies on an emergency basis. She is now awaiting the decision on her asylum application in Greece. All of her family is in Cameroon.
Before coming to Greece, Olivia worked in a bookshop. She started making art when she came to Greece and learned about the Love Without Borders program. Her work is inspired by the art of others, by nature and also by her surroundings.
When not creating art or taking care of her babies, she loves to cook. Her dream is to have a good job and take care of herself and her children.
Le Masque Pende (The Pende Mask) by Jean-Paul Waroma, DRCAcrylic on canvas, 40x30cm
£149 + postage & packing
“This painting is the union of African love.”
Artist biography
Jean-Paul is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he worked in ceramics, oil painting, calligraphy and Plastic Sculpture. He studied at the Academie des Beaux Artes, where he gained a BA in Art Realism and a qualification in Plastic Arts. In the DRC he had his own art studio, where he trained 39 students and gained a reputation as a beloved and inspirational teacher.
He was asked by the opposition party to create protest art and was imprisoned as a result. He risked his life to escape and flew to Istanbul, where he took a boat to Lesvos and spent nine months in the Moria refugee camp. His wife and four children are still in the DRC.
While in the Moria camp, Jean-Paul took the opportunity to both paint and teach art with two local projects - The Hope Project and Artolution.
Jean-Paul says “I’ve been painting ever since my mother put me in baby bunting! Painting makes me feel happy, but it is also how I deal with the sadness of my journey. I know I am stronger for crossing all these countries to come here to Greece. I feel better when I express the difficulties I’ve passed through. It has given me a real energy inside - a whole courage from these experiences. I want to express the sadness that refugees feel. I’m the type of person who describes myself - my thoughts and feelings - through my art. I like to paint children. So many children are so sad; I like to make them happy. Back in Congo I would gather the children from the streets and teach them art, and it did my heart good!”
Jean-Paul’s mission is to be a good teacher to the young, and some day to have his own art studio again.
£149 + postage & packing
“This painting is the union of African love.”
Artist biography
Jean-Paul is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he worked in ceramics, oil painting, calligraphy and Plastic Sculpture. He studied at the Academie des Beaux Artes, where he gained a BA in Art Realism and a qualification in Plastic Arts. In the DRC he had his own art studio, where he trained 39 students and gained a reputation as a beloved and inspirational teacher.
He was asked by the opposition party to create protest art and was imprisoned as a result. He risked his life to escape and flew to Istanbul, where he took a boat to Lesvos and spent nine months in the Moria refugee camp. His wife and four children are still in the DRC.
While in the Moria camp, Jean-Paul took the opportunity to both paint and teach art with two local projects - The Hope Project and Artolution.
Jean-Paul says “I’ve been painting ever since my mother put me in baby bunting! Painting makes me feel happy, but it is also how I deal with the sadness of my journey. I know I am stronger for crossing all these countries to come here to Greece. I feel better when I express the difficulties I’ve passed through. It has given me a real energy inside - a whole courage from these experiences. I want to express the sadness that refugees feel. I’m the type of person who describes myself - my thoughts and feelings - through my art. I like to paint children. So many children are so sad; I like to make them happy. Back in Congo I would gather the children from the streets and teach them art, and it did my heart good!”
Jean-Paul’s mission is to be a good teacher to the young, and some day to have his own art studio again.
Noble Horse by Nazgol Gomuradi, IranAcrylic on canvas, 40x30cm
£139 + postage & packing
“The idea of the painting is all my own, I took the idea of my painting from the bottom of my heart. Horses are very beautiful and powerful creatures that have helped to move and travel long distances alongside humans in the past, and these days, this friendship between humans and horses has remained and has become more and more than in the past. However, we can point to the value and importance of noble animals such as horses, which have certainly been influential not only in the lives of humans, but even in history.”
Artist biography
“Hello, my name is Nazgol. I am an artist from Iran. I came to Greece when I was 17 with my father, but he was deported back to Iran not long after we arrived. I endured many hardships in Greece, both in the refugee camps and in Athens, alone without my father. Until I started painting again.
I have been interested in painting since I was a child. As long as I can remember, I always painted. And, even though I did not have the support of my family, for a while I even took classes and learned my basic techniques. Where I am from, women do not get to choose their paths, which is one of the reasons we came to Europe; My family wanted me to have freedoms.
I always try to express my feelings when I paint, or create more conceptual pieces about my own life or the lives of others. It is very important to me that my painting be based on reality. However, sometimes I also create fantasy paintings, which allow me to live in my imagination and find an escape from reality sometimes. In Greece, we immigrants are deprived of our rights, and life can be hell sometimes. So, in fact, the only thing that matters to me now is to live a quiet and trouble-free life in a corner of the world. It doesn't matter to me which country I go to, the only thing that matters to me is peace. I seek peace.
My wish is for every artist to have the opportunity to express their talents and leave a positive legacy for others in the future.
May your souls be brightened with our talent…”
£139 + postage & packing
“The idea of the painting is all my own, I took the idea of my painting from the bottom of my heart. Horses are very beautiful and powerful creatures that have helped to move and travel long distances alongside humans in the past, and these days, this friendship between humans and horses has remained and has become more and more than in the past. However, we can point to the value and importance of noble animals such as horses, which have certainly been influential not only in the lives of humans, but even in history.”
Artist biography
“Hello, my name is Nazgol. I am an artist from Iran. I came to Greece when I was 17 with my father, but he was deported back to Iran not long after we arrived. I endured many hardships in Greece, both in the refugee camps and in Athens, alone without my father. Until I started painting again.
I have been interested in painting since I was a child. As long as I can remember, I always painted. And, even though I did not have the support of my family, for a while I even took classes and learned my basic techniques. Where I am from, women do not get to choose their paths, which is one of the reasons we came to Europe; My family wanted me to have freedoms.
I always try to express my feelings when I paint, or create more conceptual pieces about my own life or the lives of others. It is very important to me that my painting be based on reality. However, sometimes I also create fantasy paintings, which allow me to live in my imagination and find an escape from reality sometimes. In Greece, we immigrants are deprived of our rights, and life can be hell sometimes. So, in fact, the only thing that matters to me now is to live a quiet and trouble-free life in a corner of the world. It doesn't matter to me which country I go to, the only thing that matters to me is peace. I seek peace.
My wish is for every artist to have the opportunity to express their talents and leave a positive legacy for others in the future.
May your souls be brightened with our talent…”
Fly by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 40x30cm
£89 + postage & packing
“From childhood, everyone had a dream to fly and be free. Everybody has a right to be free and fly to their dreams.”
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I’m 28 years old. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived to Greece on the island of Lesbos. Currently, I’m living in Athens. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I don’t have any relatives in Europe so I asked for asylum papers in Greece. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm.
I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
£89 + postage & packing
“From childhood, everyone had a dream to fly and be free. Everybody has a right to be free and fly to their dreams.”
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I’m 28 years old. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived to Greece on the island of Lesbos. Currently, I’m living in Athens. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I don’t have any relatives in Europe so I asked for asylum papers in Greece. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm.
I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Les Trois Garcons en Tortures (The Three Tortured Boys) by Jen-Paul Waroma, DRCAcrylic on canvas, 30x40cm
£149 + postage & packing
“The first says he knows nothing, the second begs that they are innocent and the third submits to the torture without confessing.”
Artist biography
Jean-Paul is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he worked in ceramics, oil painting, calligraphy and Plastic Sculpture. He studied at the Academie des Beaux Artes, where he gained a BA in Art Realism and a qualification in Plastic Arts. In the DRC he had his own art studio, where he trained 39 students and gained a reputation as a beloved and inspirational teacher.
He was asked by the opposition party to create protest art and was imprisoned as a result. He risked his life to escape and flew to Istanbul, where he took a boat to Lesvos and spent nine months in the Moria refugee camp. His wife and four children are still in the DRC.
While in the Moria camp, Jean-Paul took the opportunity to both paint and teach art with two local projects - The Hope Project and Artolution.
Jean-Paul says “I’ve been painting ever since my mother put me in baby bunting! Painting makes me feel happy, but it is also how I deal with the sadness of my journey. I know I am stronger for crossing all these countries to come here to Greece. I feel better when I express the difficulties I’ve passed through. It has given me a real energy inside - a whole courage from these experiences. I want to express the sadness that refugees feel. I’m the type of person who describes myself - my thoughts and feelings - through my art. I like to paint children. So many children are so sad; I like to make them happy. Back in Congo I would gather the children from the streets and teach them art, and it did my heart good!”
Jean-Paul’s mission is to be a good teacher to the young, and some day to have his own art studio again.
£149 + postage & packing
“The first says he knows nothing, the second begs that they are innocent and the third submits to the torture without confessing.”
Artist biography
Jean-Paul is from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he worked in ceramics, oil painting, calligraphy and Plastic Sculpture. He studied at the Academie des Beaux Artes, where he gained a BA in Art Realism and a qualification in Plastic Arts. In the DRC he had his own art studio, where he trained 39 students and gained a reputation as a beloved and inspirational teacher.
He was asked by the opposition party to create protest art and was imprisoned as a result. He risked his life to escape and flew to Istanbul, where he took a boat to Lesvos and spent nine months in the Moria refugee camp. His wife and four children are still in the DRC.
While in the Moria camp, Jean-Paul took the opportunity to both paint and teach art with two local projects - The Hope Project and Artolution.
Jean-Paul says “I’ve been painting ever since my mother put me in baby bunting! Painting makes me feel happy, but it is also how I deal with the sadness of my journey. I know I am stronger for crossing all these countries to come here to Greece. I feel better when I express the difficulties I’ve passed through. It has given me a real energy inside - a whole courage from these experiences. I want to express the sadness that refugees feel. I’m the type of person who describes myself - my thoughts and feelings - through my art. I like to paint children. So many children are so sad; I like to make them happy. Back in Congo I would gather the children from the streets and teach them art, and it did my heart good!”
Jean-Paul’s mission is to be a good teacher to the young, and some day to have his own art studio again.
My House by Manila, AfghanistanOil on canvas, 50x40cm
£199 + postage & packing
“I was inspired by the love between me and my boyfriend - just like birds which love each other forever.”
Artist biography
Manila is from Afghanistan, and lived in Iran as a refugee for many years before arriving in Greece. In her own words;
“I am Manila, an artist and designer. For 15 years I lived in Iran as a refugee woman; I was a member of the Association of Iranian Artists there. In 2019 I moved from Iran to Turkey and then Greece. On Lesvos island I worked with a gallery and after a while I moved to Athens. Since then I have been working from home and still haven’t found out how to have my own gallery.
I am alive with art and I love all nations.”
£199 + postage & packing
“I was inspired by the love between me and my boyfriend - just like birds which love each other forever.”
Artist biography
Manila is from Afghanistan, and lived in Iran as a refugee for many years before arriving in Greece. In her own words;
“I am Manila, an artist and designer. For 15 years I lived in Iran as a refugee woman; I was a member of the Association of Iranian Artists there. In 2019 I moved from Iran to Turkey and then Greece. On Lesvos island I worked with a gallery and after a while I moved to Athens. Since then I have been working from home and still haven’t found out how to have my own gallery.
I am alive with art and I love all nations.”
Lovers by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 30x30cm
£129 + postage & packing
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
£129 + postage & packing
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Freedom by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on board, 24x30cm
£49 + postage & packing
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
£49 + postage & packing
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Decant #2 by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 24x30cm
Sold together with Decant #1 for £169
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Sold together with Decant #1 for £169
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Decant #1 by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 24x30cm
Sold together with Decant #2 for £169
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Sold together with Decant #2 for £169
Artist biography
“Hello! My name is Shahnaz. I am from Afghanistan. I came to Greece in the fall of 2018. I first arrived on the island of Lesbos. I’m with my son and husband but, because we don’t have a home, we are not living together. I’m patient and I try to be strong in front of problems even though I’m an emotional person.
I didn’t paint in my home country. I went to a class in Lesvos and they helped me to learn. When I’m painting, it helps me feel calm. I went to school in Afghanistan until fifth grade. My dream is to continue my studies and to have a successful family.”
Entwined by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 24x30cm
£79 + postage & packing
£79 + postage & packing
Facing the Future by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 24x30cm
£89 + postage & packing
£89 + postage & packing
Harmony by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 30x40cm
£139 + postage & packing
£139 + postage & packing
Tangled by Shahnaz, AfghanistanAcrylic on canvas, 24x30cm
£79 + postage & packing
"These people are in a tangle"
£79 + postage & packing
"These people are in a tangle"