De Vrolijkheid

In het asielzoekerscentrum in Leiden woont op dit moment Eskedar. Ze is een van de bewoners die zich actief inzet voor andere bewoners door workshops te geven. Daarnaast is ze als kunstenaar bezig met haar eigen werk. In augustus spreken we haar over wat ze maakt en wat haar beweegt. Nieuwsgierig? Lees hieronder het interview in het Engels. 

What was your first experience with De Vrolijkheid like?

For a long time, I’ve had a deep interest in teaching kids art. When I found out that De Vrolijkheid had started activities at AZC Leiden, I reached out to them to see if I could join and help. The idea of contributing to a community that uses art to bring joy to children in challenging situations matched exactly with my interest. My first experience with De Vrolijkheid was inspiring, and it confirmed my wish to continue teaching and supporting kids through creative expression.

You are a celebrated workshop leader in Leiden! How did you decide to give your own workshops and what kind of workshops do you give?

I decided to start giving my own workshops because I deeply understand how art can be a powerful tool for healing and self-expression, especially for children who have been through trauma and difficult situations. As a refugee myself, I can personally relate to the challenges and struggles of AZC life. I know firsthand how isolating and overwhelming it can be, particularly for young people. That’s why I’m so passionate about using art as a way to help these kids process their experiences, express their emotions, and most importantly, just be kids again.

Arranging workshops is my way of giving back and creating a safe space for these children to explore their creativity and emotions. Through painting, drawing, and other forms of art, I aim to provide them with an outlet to express what they might not be able to put into words. The workshops are designed to be therapeutic, but also fun, allowing the kids to reconnect with the joy and innocence that can often be lost in challenging circumstances.

I’m incredibly grateful to Machteld for giving me the opportunity to make this a reality. Her support has been invaluable, and it’s thanks to her that I’ve been able to connect with so many children and make a positive impact on their lives. Seeing the kids smile, laugh, and proudly show off their artwork reminds me why I started this journey and fuels my desire to continue.

What do you enjoy about giving the workshops?

What I enjoy most about giving workshops is the opportunity to connect with the children on a personal level and witness their growth through creativity. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a child who might initially be hesitant or unsure gradually open up and express themselves through art. I love watching their faces light up when they realize they can create something beautiful or meaningful.

Each workshop is a new experience, filled with moments of discovery, both for the kids and for me. I enjoy the spontaneity and imagination that children bring to the table—the way they approach art with such honesty and freedom. It reminds me of the pure joy that comes from creating without fear of judgment.

Moreover, I find deep satisfaction in knowing that these workshops provide a safe space for the kids to relax and just be themselves, especially those who have been through so much at a young age. Art becomes a way for them to process their emotions and experiences, and I feel privileged to guide them through that journey.

The relationships I’ve built with the children and seeing the positive impact the workshops have on their confidence and well-being is what I cherish the most. Every session reinforces my belief in the power of art to heal and empower, and that’s what keeps me motivated to continue offering these workshops.

What do you dream of doing? What kind of things would you like to achieve as an artist?

As an artist, I dream of creating work that not only resonates on a personal level but also has a broader impact on the community. One of my biggest aspirations is to establish a dedicated art space or studio where children, especially those from refugee backgrounds, can come together to explore their creativity in a supportive environment. I want this space to be a sanctuary where art becomes a means of healing, self-expression, and connection.

I also hope to continue developing my own artistic voice and push the boundaries of my creativity. I’m constantly inspired by the stories and experiences of the children I work with, and I aim to channel that inspiration into my own art. My dream is to create a body of work that tells powerful stories, perhaps through exhibitions or public art installations that raise awareness about the refugee experience and the resilience of those who have gone through it.

Another goal of mine is to expand my workshops and bring them to more communities, both locally and internationally. I would love to collaborate with other artists, educators, and organizations to create art programs that can reach more children in need, helping them find their voice and heal through creativity.

Ultimately, I want to use my art to make a difference, whether it’s by inspiring others, fostering understanding and empathy, or simply bringing a bit of joy into someone’s life. My journey as an artist is not just about personal achievement but about contributing to something larger than myself.

Your paintings show various portraits and subjects. Are there recurring themes or things that you like to work with?

I’m particularly drawn to themes of identity, resilience, and the refugee experience, reflecting my own journey and the stories of others who have faced similar challenges. I’m also fascinated by the concept of home and belonging, often exploring how people, especially children, create a sense of place in unfamiliar environments. Nature and transformation are recurring elements in my work, symbolizing growth and renewal. My work is about telling stories of survival and hope, while celebrating the rich diversity of cultures that inspire me.

*Studio visit with stelt in een serie interviews opkomende getalenteerde kunstenaars centraal, die op dit moment in een asielzoekerscentrum wonen.