Showcase of creative art, poetry reading by refugee artists in KL

A Kuala Lumpur-based non-profit social organisation is presenting Bridging Borders – an innovative exhibition showcasing artworks by refugee artists living in Malaysia.

Presented by Greater Action, the exhibition will feature more than 120 original art pieces by 13 talented and self-taught refugee artists living in Kuala Lumpur who are from Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan and Syria.

It will be held at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC) in Bukit Kiara on Nov 18 and Nov 19, from 10am to 9pm.

Greater Action founder Julie Das said Bridging Borders was much more than just an innovative art platform.

“It showcases the artists’ dreams and concerns, highlighting the commonalities of everyday emotions such as love, fear, happiness and sadness that we all experience as humans – helping us overcome our walls, our borders and our differences.

“Last year, we held the Colours of Hope art exhibition, which was a great launching pad for our young artists.

“This time, we are being more ambitious and taking a step further with their art, by holding fun and meaningful sessions.

“We want the world to know their talent and skills, and support them in all ways possible to improve their livelihoods,” she said.

“At Greater Action, we strive to create a dynamic community of self-reliant and skilled refugee men and women who are self-sustainable by giving them access to our various programmes and focusing on skills training, education programmes and livelihood opportunities,” Julie added.

With mixed mediums, styles and imagery, the artists’ works share their journeys and stories experienced as human beings but from a unique perspective.

The exhibition helps motivate the artists by giving them a platform to showcase their creations and allowing them to freely express their emotions through their art.

The event will also feature poetry reading, personal storytelling, live drawing sessions by the artists as well as tea and food prepared by the Afghan refugees, who are part of Greater Action’s other initiative – Greater Action Culinary.

Greater Action’s fair, ethical and social Upcycled Tailoring Project will also be showcased.

A range of bespoke products handcrafted by a team of skilled Afghan refugee women will be available.

All the products are made using 100% pre-loved donated materials and will offer visitors a sustainable and unique shopping experience.