The Way Back Home is a heart-wrenching artwork that portrays the struggles of child refugees in search of a place to call home. The little white bear, representing these children, braves the perilous journey on a flimsy paper boat, risking his life in the hope of finding safety and a better life.
It's a poignant reminder of the harsh reality that many child refugees face. The paper boat's wordings, made up of news articles on children refugees who drowned, print-tranferred on canvas, and painted with acrylic, evoke a sense of tragedy and desperation that these children go through. The old newspaper look adds to the authenticity and impact of the artwork.
The little bear, looking up at the North Star for guidance and yearning for a reunion with Mama bear, represents the longing for safety, comfort, and family that these children deserve.
It’s a powerful symbol of the ongoing refugee crisis that the world needs to address. The Way Back Home serves as a call to action, reminding us that no child should ever be forced to endure such a traumatic experience. It’s a reminder that we must all do our part to make this world a safer and more welcoming place for everyone, especially the most vulnerable among us.