This project is an ode to the refugees of all history, inspired on the legend of black Saint Sara, protector of the Gypsies and landless. She was a nomad, gypsy Rom, circa 42 A.C., whom helped a group of Christians expelled from Palestine adrift on a boat without sail nor oar after Jesus death, who could be considered the first known refugees of our era.
Inspired in Sara’s hosting attitude welcoming the boat crew, this project suggests us to be motivated by her behavior towards unknown people in exile, and invites the public to a reflection about the importance of unifying ourselves through acts of love and empathy.
I approach the concept of Sara’s Legacy, referring to women united to shelter and help the refugees.
To present this concept I collaborate with many women across the world who send me pictures of themselves looking at the sea with peace and hospitality thoughts – representing a collective movement as an egregore -, sending protection thoughts to migrants crossing the ocean.
As a member of Sara’s Legacy, in a waiting posture, I made a video performance in front of the sea, where I dismantled a knitted sweater which would be donated to migrants arriving in Calais, which was rejected due to the fact it was not of the adequate color for refugees.
The red thread of the unknitted sweater will be used in all the art pieces of the project and especially to link the photos of the women in the shape of a map of connected people in favor of refugees.