Art Without Borders in Nea Kavala, Greece: Grant Update

March 12, 2019

Kayra Martinez, manager of Love Without Borders for Refugees in Need, sent this update about the successes of their program Art Without Borders, which uses art as a tool for healing and income for refugees in Nea Kavala, Greece.  Art Without Borders was a first-time BWB recipient in 2017.

“We host art classes with refugees from several countries, we pay them directly for their art, and take the art to a different country every month to create awareness and support for refugees in Greece.  Over 300 people have participated, and their art has been seen by thousands around the world!

By using art as a therapeutic tool, we help refugees to work through their trauma.  Using the sales of their art to support them financially, we have been able to buy clothes, fix phones, buy medicine, fresh food, and even take a group to dinner at a restaurant.  We have brought awareness to many communities, from the USA to Switzerland, at the events showing the art.

People are getting more involved with the refugee crisis when they’re aware of the project. Children are having bake sales, people are flying to Greece to help volunteer and people are aware that the crisis is still a huge concern.

I continue to have art classes in Greece, to buy art from refugees and sell the art around the world, to create awareness and give a human side and positive story about the people I meet in Greece.

Love Without Borders is interested in working with other grassroots organizations that give directly to refugees.  If you’re in the same city we have a show in, it would be great to collaborate.

BWB, I am thankful for your program and wish you all the best and much success for 2018!”