Artwork by migrants from across the country is set to go on display in Sydney.
The Harmony Art Collective consists of a series of murals created by more than 300 young migrants in eight workshops held nationwide.
The murals, erected in Darling Quarter, range from bold patterns in black and white to multiple words scrawled atop one another in multiple languages and colours.
The exhibit is a collaboration between aMBUSH Gallery, SBS and the Department of Social Services.
Bill Dimas, curator of Sydney's aMBUSH Gallery, describes the exhibition as one of the most challenging but fulfilling projects he's been part of.
"We believe this exhibition is an opportunity for Australians to connect with the stories of young recently settled migrants so we can find out directly from them their stories, what they've experienced back in their own homes, and also see their gratitude for being here in Australia," he said.
Melbourne street artist Kaff-eine was one of several established names who led the workshops. With the help of interpreters, she successfully encouraged many of the students to show off their artistic flair for the first time.
"You can photograph someone and tell their story, you can do a news article and you can see them, everything's visual," she explains.
"But when you're creating something from nothing, when you see an object and you're painting it, interpreting it through your eyes, what you get is something from the inside of people you can't get through any other medium."
Mario Kharrat's story is one of hundreds that's been poured into the display.
His passion for circus performing began shortly after he and his family left Syria to seek refuge in Lebanon.
It was here the teenager joined a local circus troupe, that visited schools and even refugee camps.
"It makes you a little sad because you feel with them," he said. "But that makes you happy too because you make them happy."
Last year Mario made yet another transition, by moving to Australia.
"I left my country and I have to start from the beginning," he said.
"The life in Australia is better than the Middle East. There is war and other problems. But Australia is very nice country."
“We’re incredibly proud to be a part of the Harmony Art Collective," said Clare O’Neil, SBS's Director of Corporate Affairs. "It’s fantastic to see how hundreds of young Australians from all over the world have been able to express their cultural identity and their sense of belonging to their new country through the project.
"The exhibition is a great opportunity to share these important stories, and for people to learn more about the experiences of young migrants who call Australia home.”
