Prized art from the heart

REFUGEES will bare their hearts on canvas at Dandenong’s Walker Street Gallery this month.
The fourth annual Heartlands Refugee Art Prize and Exhibition includes paintings, sculptures, photography and drawings depicting the theme ’I wish to see … ’.
Paintings from Dandenong resident Lamis Albyati and Hussein Ali Zobea from Dandenong North were shortlisted for the AMES and Multicultural Arts Victoria honour and will be on show.
City of Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long said the exhibition showcased the stories, dreams and aspirations of people seeking a fresh start in a new homeland.
“It’s a wonderful way to embrace and celebrate the skills, talents and creativity that refugees bring to Australia, and the social and cultural contributions they provide to our community,” she said.
The display is part of Greater Dandenong’s EMERGE festival, which celebrates the area’s multicultural heritage through music, dance, food and ceremony.
It’s on show until 27 July at Walker Street Gallery, corner Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong, from 11am to 5pm on weekdays and 11am to 3pm on Saturdays.