Painting: Watercolor, goldleaf, Charcoal on Paper.

They have crossed deserts, survived torture, rape, and human terror to get here.

On a fragile, overcrowded dinghy on the deadly sea. Terrified and seasick, clinging on the hope of a better future in Europe. These are the lucky ones, who did not die tragically at sea.

Walking into the blue night and bright mood. Embraced by the golden thermal blankets. What comes next, what will their destiny be? Uncertain, and most likely a constant struggle for survival and basic human rights. It is up to Europe and to us living in democracies – are we willing to share our freedom, success, and privileges or will we keep turning the other cheek?

This piece is a part of the project “Out of Africa” focusing on the African/European migration crisis. As Libya has become the gatekeeper to the safe haven of Europe many lay their lives in the hands of human smugglers.

They set out on the 200 miles deadly journey on the Mediterranean Sea in overcrowded dinghies made of cheap plastic and equipped with tiny engines with limited fuel.

Most of the boats are only made to just make it into international waters 13 miles from the coast of Libya.

30% of the profit of this painting will go to MOAS (Migrant Offshore Aid Station).