TEARS OF JOY CONCEPT
Each teardrop has been hand painted by a vulnerable young asylum seeker or refugees who is now living in West Sussex. Many arrived unaccompanied and many suffered losses on their journey to reach here. We asked them to paint on their wooden teardrops any memories they would like to capture or what makes them happy. We gave them the paints and said have fun. We are non-prescriptive. The unpainted teardrops in the exhibition represent those who are still in danger in their home countries may still be journeying or who were unable to make it to safety

Article12Arts uses the arts to give a voice and to empower vulnerable young people. We deliver creative tool kits, workshops and activities that transcend language, breakdown barriers and enhance community cohesion.

 Many refugees and asylum seekers are isolated with years without stability and broken education These young people are vulnerable, with language barriers and trauma associated with what they have experienced. At a time in the UK were racial, political and gender divisions are being tested, our project aims to provide a celebration of diversity and help improve community integration. We aim to offer local vulnerable young people a safe space to create and express themselves and thus enhance their sense of belonging.

Due to national lockdowns, local communities have also been unable to experience art LIVE so our aim is to provide a little joy and entertainment as well as help improve mental health challenges associated with isolation which have grown during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 We hope the exhibition brings you some joy and hope.

 Kate Viner & Caroline Sharman-Mendoza

 Article12Arts.co.uk