Refugee artists from Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp have opened a new exhibition through the Kakuma Art Project, and they are capturing powerful stories of resilience and creativity. The exhibition, titled The Power of One Painting, debuted at the Vanner Gallery in Salisbury, England, on September 7, 2025. It features works created during art workshops held in the camp.
The Kakuma Art Project, co-founded by UK artist Tara Dominick and refugee advocate Hubert Senga, has created a platform for refugee artists to share their journeys through visual expression. Workshops inside Kakuma provided materials, mentorship, and a space for storytelling through painting and mixed media.
Moreover, the exhibition includes BOAT, the original painting by Tara Dominick that launched this global initiative. Alongside that piece, visitors will view original art from the camp and striking portraits of refugee artists created by renowned portrait painter Alastair Barford. This collaboration emphasizes both individual identity and creative spirit.
Additionally, the project has launched ARTLINE, a digital campaign that transforms creativity into aid. Through ARTLINE, global artists contribute work to themed online galleries, and each submission including from visitors generates essential funds for humanitarian support in Kakuma. For example, a £27 donation provides a food pack for a refugee family or supports therapeutic workshops and safe spaces.
By spotlighting artworks, this exhibition amplifies refugee voices and shifts perceptions. Refugees are not just figures in crisis; they are artists expressing resilience, hope, and dignity. The showcase fosters empathy, cultural exchange, and awareness. As a result, the Kakuma Art Project continues to bridge communities and remind us that art can transcend borders.
