Herts Welcomes Refugees proudly presents talented artists Bahar and Enas during their residency at Trestle Arts Base. These resilient young women, who fled Iran and Syria respectively, share their powerful artistic expressions with us. Notably, Enas created the organisation's distinctive logo.
About Herts Welcomes Refugees
With over 150 dedicated volunteers, Herts Welcomes Refugees provides comprehensive support to refugees across Hertfordshire.
Their services include:
- Community integration through befriending programmes and English language assistance
- Essential resource coordination and service navigation support
- Therapeutic activities including cooking sessions and art workshops to foster wellbeing during challenging transitions
To find out more, to donate or volunteer please visit www.hertswelcomes.org.uk
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Artist’s statement: Bahar Izadi
My name is Bahar Izadi, and I am a realist artist from Iran, now based in the UK.
I hold a Master of Arts degree from the University of Tehran, where I also taught painting for 10 years and ran my art institute, mastering various techniques.
During this time, I had the privilege of exhibiting my work in several exhibitions across Iran. My preferred mediums are watercolour, oil paint, and drawing which enables me to capture the beauty and complexity of life with precision and depth.
In 2023, I exhibited my work at Mudlarks Café in Hertfordshire, a space dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities.
My art is deeply influenced by my Iranian heritage and my journey to the UK, exploring themes of identity, culture, and connection.
You can discover more of my work on Instagram: @bahart_gallery.
Artist’s statement: Enas Barakat
My name is Enas Barakat, I am originally from Syria and came to the UK as a refugee. I studied art in Alexandria, Egypt, and interior design in the UK, which gave me a strong foundation in creativity and design.
My paintings are inspired by the beauty of nature. I enjoy creating peaceful and inviting scenes that reflect the harmony and charm of these elements. I work with mixed media, often using clay paste, acrylic paint, and other materials.
This technique allows me to add texture and depth to my work, bringing my ideas to life uniquely and vividly.
You can find me on my TikTok and Instagram @enas_ba9
Entry is free and the exhibition is open during normal opening hours, please click here for more information. For enquiries about the exhibition space at Trestle, please contact our Gallery Programmer at gallery@trestle.org.uk | 01727 850950
