Refugees revitalise communities with murals that repaint their narratives

From refugee camps in Jordan to favelas in Brazil, street artist Joel Bergner is restoring dreams and strengthening vulnerable communities. People living in marginalised areas may often experience crime, displacement, or social exclusion. But Bergner is equipping them with a creative outlet for healing through his non-profit Artolution. “I want to bring colour and hope to the world's most desolate places,” he says. 

Bergner previously worked as a youth trauma counsellor, during which time he encouraged children to be creative. Many of them would gravitate towards art, inspiring Bergner to reach more kids experiencing social challenges. With over 89 million people who have been displaced worldwide, many humanitarian agencies focus on assisting with food and shelter, while trauma relief and recreational opportunities are often neglected. “It’s so important to provide these kinds of activities that bring the community together to form a new sense of home,” Bergner says. 

Through Artolution, upskilled local artists facilitate public initiatives and create vibrant street art that reflects their community’s energy and passion. “Kids are growing up and living their entire childhoods in refugee camps,” Bergner explains. But by painting murals, they have a medium to tell their stories. “This platform for refugees allows them to take control of their own narrative,” he adds. He also sets up workshops that allow youth to discuss their exposure to trauma, and their aspirations for the future. “We focus on collaborative arts-based programmes in places like Syrian refugee camps in Jordan, Uganda, and also the United States,” Bergner says. As an essential part of the healing process, children receive support from their mentors who have had similar experiences. 

“By artistically uplifting refugee communities, we can bring a sense of comfort,” Bergner says. So far, over six thousand people have been able to revive their communities with splashes of colour. “It's changed their entire lives,” Bergner says.

You can support Joel Bergner’s work here. 

Footage by Artolution and Joel Bergner was used in the creation of this film.