specifically Glasgow. The idea of belonging to a place and the loyalty the immigrant feels towards the country offering sanctuary appears ambivalent in the
light of recent events in Europe- Manchester, London, Brussels, Paris, Sweden etc.
I have been making portraits (mainly drawings) of refugees and Asylum-seekers since 2011.There are around 700 drawings and paintings of
Refugees and their children, individual and group portraits (I was Gramnet 's inaugural Artist in Residence between 2011-2014) with Glasgow University.
The intention was to allow people to tell their stories, and using these portraits, which are printed on a large scale, and also exhibited as miniatures in glass
cases ,using precious materials- gold leaf, silver, pearls etc. cast some light on the lives of people who are often unnoticed, the undocumented
immigrant who has few rights in his adopted country, and who's life is precarious.
The drawing project, the book and film will be shown together with a slide- show of the best drawings, and
writings, text and comments about the experience of having a portrait made, by some of the people who were involved in the project.
Scotland is not an integrated country and there is growing animosity towards immigrants.
Any small project that spans the gap between people, especially ones that welcome people and encourage dialogue have proved the most valuable
in promoting understanding and respect between the local and the newcomer.
