This painting narrates the story of Rasha. I had the pleasure of connecting with her while traveling to Berlin, Germany for my project Women Across Borders. Rasha is a refugee from Syria that lives in Berlin with her three daughters. She is a Dentist and also has a successful YouTube channel, called “Rasha and Life” where she discusses various topics around culture, being a refugee in Berlin, and life in general.

In the painting she is shown with a geometric halo behind her, this design can be seen frequently in the art and architecture of Damascus. Damascus is the capital of Syria and is known for being the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. This land, extremely close to her heart, is also referred to as the “City of Jasmin” because the streets are covered in Jasmin trees which make the city smell like a dream. There are three Jasmin flowers over her heart to symbolize that her 3 children will always be connected to their home and culture even if they live and grow elsewhere. The flowers are held up by the moon and sheltered inside an upside-down triangle. Both of these shapes signify goddess energy, illustrating Rasha’s ability as a single mother to care, protect, and empower her daughters. 

Gold is often used in traditional Syrian art, especially in the great city of Damascus. Although gold can be associated with this traditional style, it is adaptable and can enhance any Genre. Much like refugees, Gold can only add beauty and value to any new ground when welcomed into the picture.