A new public artwork commissioned by Choose Love, Counterpoints and the Southbank Centre.
Responding to the Refugee Week 2026 theme of ‘courage’, and the Choose Love and Creative Visions themes ‘unique and united’ artist Malak Mattar has created a new installation in collaboration with young people from Ukraine and Greece. The commission is a bold public artwork inviting reflection on solidarity, community and courage.
Malak Mattar describes Floating Together
‘Growing up by the sea in Gaza, summer meant long days at the beach and the excitement of new colourful swimming floats that marked our journey from childhood to adulthood. Swan and turtle-shaped floats became symbols of joy and childhood. Over time, the meaning of the sea changed. As life under blockade became difficult, many young people began crossing the sea in search of a better life. Some reached new shores, while others were lost along the way.
‘The installation reflects both memories of my childhood and the realities of displacement. Inspired by swimming floats, the work is large, playful and illuminated with vibrant light, especially at night, honouring the many refugee journeys made in darkness, while sending a message that refugees are seen, welcomed and cared for.
‘The patterns featured on the floats are created in collaboration with young people from Ukraine and Greece, alongside drawings by children from Gaza, expressing family life, flowers, dreams, love and unity.’
The installation is part of the Southbank Centre’s Riverside Sessions.
About Malak Mattar
Malak Mattar (b. Gaza Strip) is a multidisciplinary Palestinian artist whose work is rooted in personal and collective experiences under occupation and siege. She began painting as a teenager, using art as a form of survival and resistance. Her work has been exhibited internationally and is held in private and public collections, including the British Museum. Mattar is also the Artistic Director of the Together for Palestine Concert and the author of the bestselling children’s book Sitti’s Bird.
Photo: Mark Field
