Dulwich Picture Gallery names winner in 'Reimagining Play' competition

The winner of the 'Reimagining Play at Dulwich Picture Gallery' design contest has been announced as McCloy + Muchemwa with HoLD Collective and Cake Industries by the Dulwich Picture Gallery and London Festival of Architecture.

Their usable sculpture installation titled A Gift of Flowers takes inspiration from a Jan van Huysum still life painting in the 207-year-old museum’s collection, presenting visitors with a playful sensory experience made from reclaimed steel and forming in the shape of flower pedals.

The team will next work with local communities around the region to further advance the concept, which the popular British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori said: "immediately captivated me with its striking design, vibrant colours, dynamic composition, and sensorial textures."

The gallery’s Deputy Director Chantelle Culshaw added: "This unique collaboration brings to life Dulwich Picture Gallery and London Festival of Architecture’s vision for a fun, interactive and inclusive commission, which will reinvigorate a currently under-used part of our grounds. The team have placed access at the forefront of their design and have carefully considered sustainability using recycled materials, which will allow families to enjoy the sculpture for years to come."

The installation will be completed in Gallery's sculpture garden in 2026.