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Campbell created this sculpture, entitled Al Di Là, depicting a woman holding the world in her hands, to highlight how war in Gaza is affecting women and children.
His hope is that visitors to Bewley’s will be moved to support the Gaza Famine Appeal by UNICEF, through a number of prominent QR codes at the café.
“As I was creating this piece a year ago, I was thinking about how destruction of our world is being targeted at women and children,” said Campbell.
“We feel frustrated and helpless – but as an artist, I feel I have a responsibility to move people to act with generosity.
“I’m hoping the sculpture I created will move people even a little bit and might, in this case, encourage them to make a contribution towards saving Gaza from further starvation and desolation.”
According to UNICEF, at least 50,000 have been reported killed or injured in the Gaza strip since 2023, while over half a million people are trapped in famine as food, water and medical aid remain out of reach.
“Men fight, but women and innocent children suffer the greatest burden of wars and terrorism” he said.
The sculpture is entitled Al Di Là, which means ‘beyond’ in English.
Campbell explained that “the woman looks away, her face expressing grief, despair, terror, disgust, but not defeat”.
“We’re far away from those people ‘beyond’ in Gaza and we have to get on with our lives. We try to carry our compassion around, as the woman holds the globe.”
UNICEF Ireland Executive Director, Peter Power, highlighted the importance of the fundraising initiative.
“The scale of suffering in the Gaza Strip is truly catastrophic; over half a million people are enduring famine conditions with 320,000 children under five at risk of malnutrition,” he said.
“UNICEF is on the ground in Gaza, working tirelessly to deliver lifesaving support, including emergency therapeutic food for malnourished children, clean water and maternal and newborn health services.
“Patrick’s sculpture is a deeply moving tribute to the strength and sorrow of mothers and children in Gaza, compassionately underscoring the human cost of this crisis.
“This support could not come at a more critical time for the people of Gaza. Every euro raised will help us reach more children with the urgent support they need.”
All scone sales made during weekends throughout September will be matched by Bewley’s Grafton Street to go towards the appeal.
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