London Parks: An Exhibition

In the summer of 2026 we were thrilled be part of Harry Styles’ Meltdown festival at The Southbank Centre. London’s parks and open spaces were seen through new eyes in an exhibition of photographs created by young refugees and asylum seekers from our Pathways programme.

Photographer and filmmaker Laura Jane Coulson and participatory arts facilitator and community photographer Federico Rivas worked with young people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds to provide them with photography skills and professional experience over a series of workshops.

As places to explore, to pause and reflect, or to interact, London’s parks and open spaces are forever full of life and energy, showcasing so much of what is great about the city. These green spaces were captured by the photography of those who have found themselves here in search of peace, hope and belonging. The city’s parks make for a unique and fascinating map of a broad population and culture.

Laura Jane Coulson is a British photographer and filmmaker whose intuitive connection with her subjects imbues her work with a signature dynamic and sensory quality. Selected clients include: Burberry, Calvin Klein, Dazed & Confused, Nike, The New York Times, Universal Records, Uniqlo, Vogue Italia, The Wall Street Journal and i-D.

Federico Rivas is a participatory arts facilitator and community photographer dedicated to challenging migration stereotypes and stigma. Through a therapeutic, participatory approach, Rivas empowers migrants and refugees to share their stories, fostering inclusive and reflective processes.