Art show in aid of refugees

AN art exhibition was held in Henley in aid of refugees.

The Thames Valley Refugee Support Group turned the Friends Meeting House in Northfield End into an exhibition space.

There was a range of artwork on display, from original pieces and pictures to signed prints.

Waleid Yassir, from Sudan, exhibited paintings, while Ukrainian Yevheniia Sivook exhibited her craft mirrors.

Waleid, who now lives in Reading, said: “I call myself ‘the sad painter’ because I come from a different culture and was not supported in my work before. I didn’t have a chance. My father didn’t think the artist should be a man, so he didn’t give me a chance. When I came to the UK, I was able to paint. When I paint it is relaxing. I’m doing something that makes me happy.”

The event raised £2,000, which will be used to support refugees and buy them supplies.

Organiser Val Johnstone, from Middle Assendon, said: “Thanks to the Henley Quakers, Henley Refugee Support, Henley Sorting Group and the band of jolly volunteers from countries from around the world who came to make the day such a success.”

Pictured are, left to right, Ian Hunt, Lindsay Hunt, Waleid Yassir, Mayor Rory Hunt, Yevheniia Sivook and Val Johnstone.