You Look As Though You Might Be A Relation

As part of the Counterpoints Moomin 80 commissions for Refugee Week, Gloucester Guildhall presented You Look as Though You Might Be a Relation by Dana Olărescu, and a Moominous programme of events, screenings and performances.

Gloucester Docks

“Hello there!” cried Moomintroll through the storm, to show that he was not afraid. “Hello, hello,” said the sea-troll. “You look as though you might be a relation”.

A floating installation by socially engaged artist Dana Olărescu that invites us to reflect on how we welcome newcomers to Gloucester, and form bonds beyond blood ties – an exploration of belonging, family, and community in new and unexpected ways.

The installation was co-commissioned and co-produced by Counterpoints Arts and Gloucester Guildhall, made possible by the support of Moomin Characters Ltd. in celebration of 80 years since the publication of the first Moomin story.

Dana ran a series of workshops exploring ideas of welcome and mapping resources and services useful for new arrivals, as well as the collective raft-building.

Moonlit Arrival

As the moon rose, the Moomin raft embarked on its journey across the docks. Gather by the water and let the melodies of local artist Zariq Rosita-Hanif float to you on the evening breeze, carried from the raft beneath the midsummer sky.

For those who wish to get closer, a limited number of special tickets will allow you to row out and experience the music up close. Bring your nightlights and join us for a serene and magical farewell as the raft drifts gently into the night.

Moomin Picnic

A Moomin-style picnic in Kings Square marked the finale of a fantastic week of city-wide events for Refugee Week, part of the Moomins’ 80th-anniversary celebrations. In response to Dana Olărescu’s floating installation in the docks: You Look as Though You Might be a Relation, the day celebrated community as a superpower and welcome as a core part of Gloucester’s identity.

Welcome Chorus: Gloucester Guildhall

Red Isaac, Senior Producer, Gloucester Guildhall, said: “As a dock city, welcoming people seeking sanctuary is built into our story. There is huge pride in this heritage, and the theme of welcoming people features prominently in the work of communities and arts organisations across the city, recognising the transformative and rich contributions of all the cultures that make up Gloucester. The story of welcome, belonging and safety at the heart of the Moomins chime perfectly with Gloucester Guildhall and city’s values. We are delighted to explore and celebrate these important themes in this project with Moomin Characters and Counterpoint Arts.”

The Guildhall Gallery and Chamber Cinema space were transformed into a pop-up book-style welcome. An immersive light and sound installation by Squidsoup & Vilk Collective Welcome Chorus which echoed songs of welcome, belonging and overcoming adversity gathered from communities across Gloucester.

Moomin ABC

A beautiful interactive exhibition brought to the Museum of Gloucester by Bakehouse Factory. “Settle down for an hour to explore the magic world of the Moomins with your family and immerse yourself in the adventures of Moominmamma, Sniff, Stinky, Little My, Hodgkins, Snufkin and Snorkmaiden!”