Artists from refugee backgrounds launch new work at thriving street festival

It will also serve as the launch of new work by Settlement Services International (SSI) artists Karmeen Yalda, Mariam Abbas and Emmanuel Asante.

Festival-goers can get happy-snaps in front of the artists’ contribution to a community mural created by Muralisto in partnership with SSI’s Arts and Culture program.

Zoe Edema from Muralisto said the mural centred on multiculturalism and diversity.

“Muralisto is dedicated to using public art as a vehicle for social change,” she said.

“We do this with youth-focused art mentorships. Working with groups of young people, we start by discussing social issues and incorporate them into the plan for the mural, and then they work with our mentors to paint them.”

Karmeen Yalda said her experience attending workshops in the lead-up to painting the mural had allowed her to learn about the past and present of some of the world’s most magnificent artworks.

“It was one of the best experiences. I was so delighted and happy and would love to join again,” she said.

Self-taught artist Emmanuel Asante was first connected to SSI through Headspace when battling depression. He said his experience with SSI was like a dream come true.

“I feel more alive and useful because I am contributing more and my art is recognised,” he said.

“Meeting people who are passionate about art gives me self-satisfaction because, where I come from, art is held in disdain. There is no other joy than hearing a compliment from kids: ‘I want to draw like him!’”

Eat Your Heart Out Liverpool will be held on August 25, 2 pm – 9 pm, in Railway Street, Liverpool. See the program for more information.