The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Syrian refugee donates art in ‘wonderful support’ thanks
Culture: Artist living in Edinburgh in charity gift for help he has received
A Syrian artist now living in Scotland as a refugee has donated work to a charity auction as a thank-you to those who have helped him.
Nihad Al Turk, who was on the first Syrian refugee flight from Lebanon in 2015, said he started working on projects four days after he moved to Edinburgh.
The artist, who lives with his wife and two children, won awards in Syria for his work but he also clashed with the government.
He said he was warmly welcomed by Leith School of Art (LSA) when he arrived in Scotland and given space to work and support in creating a mural to mark Refugee Week.
Mr Al Turk has now donated three works to an auction to raise funds for LSA outreach programmes.
Speaking through an interpreter, he said: “We have been made so welcome in Edinburgh, and the support I have had from Leith School of Art has been wonderful.
“I wanted to say ‘thankyou’ to everyone, and the best way I can do that is through my art.
“I worked hard for many years to build my career as an artist at home. But the war meant all that was lost and it became too dangerous to stay there.
“My aim now is to start all over again and build my reputation in this new country that has been so kind to us.”
Phil Archer, LSA principal, said: “The generosity of all the artists contributing to the auction has been tremendous. It is particularly inspiring that Nihad, who arrived with almost nothing, is helping support our charitable work. I have been impressed by his talent and determination.”