I caught up with Enas, the young Syrian artist who has designed HWSF's Christmas cards over the past two years. She arrived in Hertfordshire a few years ago and has been involved with HWSF during that time. If you'd like to purchase a pack of the Christmas cards she's designed (pictured below), please e-mail Catherine@hwsf.org.uk with your address. The cards cost £5 for a pack of ten - all proceeds support the work of HWSF. HWSF: Can you tell us about something inspiring your art right now? Enas: When I left Syria after the war started, I travelled to Egypt. Seeing different cultures and new people inspired me. HWSF: When did you know that you wanted to be an artist? Enas: Since I was a child I spent most of my holiday time drawing. I love it. HWSF: Do you have a favourite subject for your art? Enas: I prefer making portraits [of people]. HWSF: Have you seen any art works since you arrived in the UK that you loved? Enas: I went to London and saw a lot of paintings by famous artists such as Picasso and van Gogh. I was really happy about that. HWSF: What are you working on at the moment? Enas: I am learning English and developing my IT skills. In five years, I hope to be finishing my studies, finding a good job, and drawing new things. HWSF: What do you like to do in your free time? Enas: I like walking, exploring new places and painting. HWSF: Is there anything else that you’d like people to know about you? Enas: Every refugee comes from a war, but they carry many dreams and the energy to start a new life. Thanks for giving us this opportunity. HWSF: Thank you, Enas! We really appreciate you answering these questions and designing such beautiful cards for us. Christmas card designs by Enas.
There was a lot of laughter, singing and walking at the HWSF Dacorum, Watford and Three Rivers holiday party on Sunday 9 Dec.
Seventy-five of us gathered in Little Gaddesden village hall at noon and quickly got the children involved with pass-the-parcel. Seems to be a new favourite game! After a buffet lunch, volunteers and families split into two groups: some went to the playground across the fields, while about thirty went on a walk into the beautiful Golden Valley. After an hour of exercise and beautiful scenery, we returned to well-earned cake and hot cups of tea. We were treated to singing from Bahram and Rachid, and the children enjoyed musical statues and chairs! It was a wonderful afternoon seeing friends and meeting new ones and a lovely way to celebrate the holiday season. Many thanks to all the volunteers, particularly Julia Bolton, for all their hard work and help in making it a brilliant day! [Text and photo by Liv Bolton] An article in the Herts Advertiser about the afternoon tea for Syrian refugees hosted by St Albans Masorti Synagogue and HWSF can be read here:
https://www.hertsad.co.uk/news/st-albans-synagogue-celebrates-mitzvah-day-with-afternoon-tea-for-syrian-refugees-1-5798774 |
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