As part of Refugee Week 2025, you’re invited to join a free creative workshop and contribute to A Sea of Words for Portsmouth.
A Sea of Words for Portsmouth is a new large-scale public artwork created by Hong Kong artists Kingsley Ng and Stephanie Cheung.
In October, words gathered from across the city will be released into a sculptural sea of light, sound and performance at Boathouse 5 in Portsmouth Historic Quarter.
A memory. A lifeline. A sanctuary. Shaped by the voices of the city, the project begins with a simple invitation.
Join a free creative workshop during Refugee Week. We will provide paper, pens and refreshments. No need to book, just choose from our four sessions and come along:
- Wed 18 June, 6–7 PM: The Greenhouse, Victoria Park
- Thu 19 June, 12:30–1:30 PM: Portsmouth Central Library
- Thu 19 June, 3–4 PM: Aspex Portsmouth
- Fri 20 June, 10–11 AM: John Pounds Centre
You’ll be gently guided through a process of reflection and response, choosing a single word that carries meaning for you or a phrase in a language that feels like home. You’ll fold a paper boat and write your word on it, adding your voice to a growing record of words for the final installation. Whether you’ve crossed oceans or simply turned a corner, your voice is part of the story.
What’s involved?
- reflect on a journey or experience that’s mattered to you
- choose a single word that holds meaning – a memory, a lifeline, a sanctuary
- fold a paper boat and write your word on it
- contribute to a growing city-wide archive that will shape the final installation
We’re also inviting a small number of participants to have their stories featured in the installation or help gather words from others. You can learn more at any session.
A Sea of Words for Portsmouth is presented by Crying Out Loud and 432 Nomads as part of Our Sanctuary: Ocean of Voices – a community-led project supported by Arts Council England and part of Portsmouth Creates’ In Our Words programme.
