Against the backdrop of a hazy summer evening in the British capital, award-winning artist Murugiah unveiled Compassion – a lively and thought-provoking piece of work currently on display at London’s Southbank Centre as part of its Refugee Week celebrations.

Named after this year’s theme, The Different Folk artist collaborated with young asylum seekers from refugee initiative Compass Collective to produce a piece that communicates the interconnectivity of the wider world.

Inspired by schoolchildren’s display of solidarity with asylum seekers across the UK, the collaborative process that brought Compassion to life speaks to the genesis of Refugee Week. The arts and culture festival, established in 1998, recognises refugees’ resilience, creative endeavours and cultural contribution.

Commissioned by Choose Love, Counterpoints Arts and Students Rebuild for the 25th anniversary of the celebration, Murugiah’s vision and distinctive technique provides a timely reminder that compassion – in all its forms – has the power to shift perspective, steer progress and shape futures.