Syrian immigrant and artist Essa Neima

“I want to represent all the disrespected people and the art damaged by the violence and say ‘Touch me not,’” Neima explains. The verse goes on to say, “for I have not yet returned to my Father.” Most Syrian refugees across the world claim they would like to return home to rebuild their nation as well. For now, Neima lives in Washington D.C and works as an adjunct professor of digital art at the University of the District of Columbia.

Syrian artist Essa Neima in his studio in Washington D.C.