Highlights
- Painter Naomi Cox will show a series of watercolors to highlight the plight of Syrian refugee.
- Art will be on display April 2-30 at Dubsea Coffee in White Center.
- An artist reception will take place April 8 from 5-7 p.m.
- Proceeds from art sales will benefit World Vision’s Syrian Refugee Crisis Fund
SEATTLE (March 28, 2017) — As the Syrian refugee crisis enters its seventh year, it’s difficult to imagine what new events could make life worse for the millions of Syrians who have fled their homes to escape the violence of the country’s brutal civil war. More difficult still: how to maintain fresh compassion when the numbers of those killed, injured, displaced and in need have grown to the point of becoming paralyzing.
Local painter Naomi Cox, started her job as a designer at World Vision three years into the crisis. Four years later, she was looking for a way to come to grips with the tragedy, refresh her compassion and do something active to help refugees through her talent as an artist.
“I see so many photos, articles and videos. It can be overwhelming and, like so many people, I start to feel like there’s nothing I can do to help,” said Cox. “I wanted to do more than give money and pray. I wanted to use my art to shine a light on the crisis.”
From that sense of frustration and restlessness, “Displaced :: Moments in the Lives of Syrian Refugees” emerged. This series of 12 watercolor paintings depicts life for refugees fleeing Syria by boat, migrating into Europe by land, and stuck in camps and settlements in Lebanon and Jordan.
“Painting is a way for me to process the injustice, says Cox. “To reflect on the need, but also to convey the hope that survives, even in the darkest circumstances. My desire is for this art to bring awareness, encourage compassion, and cause people to pause, advocate, and give.”
The paintings will be on display April 2-30 at Dubsea Coffee, 9910 8th Ave SW in Seattle. An opening reception will be held April 8 from 5-7 p.m. Proceeds from art sales will be donated to World Vision’s Syrian Refugee Crisis Fund.
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About World Vision:
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization conducting relief, development, and advocacy activities in its work with children, families, and their communities in nearly 100 countries to help them reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, please visit www.WorldVision.org/media-center/ or on Twitter @WorldVisionUSA.