The Mosaic Rooms, a cherished cornerstone of the A.M. Qattan Foundation’s vision to internationally expand its Culture and Arts Programme, is entering a new chapter. Launched in November 2008 as a brainchild of Foundation trustee Omar al-Qattan, and after 16 inspiring years of impactful work in London, The Mosaic Rooms will henceforth operate as an independent organisation and distinct legal entity.
This transformation represents a milestone that speaks to and celebrates the achievements of a shared journey. The Mosaic Rooms’ evolution into an independent and thriving London cultural institution underscores its remarkable success in supporting and promoting contemporary culture from the Arab world and beyond.
Since its inception as a gallery, non-profit arts organisation, and bookshop in London, The Mosaic Rooms serves as a vital space for creative voices from the Arab world, with a special focus on Palestine. It fosters meaningful dialogue; champions underrepresented perspectives and supports sustainable and equitable cultural practices. Its creative learning programme has grown over the years, deepening its impact and reach. Through exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, book launches, debates, and community engagement, The Mosaic Rooms has become an integral part of the UK arts landscape, inspiring diverse audiences and providing a space for exploration, learning, and experimentation. It will remain committed to these remits, ambitions, and audiences.
Under the stewardship of Director Rachael Jarvis and her small team, The Mosaic Rooms has, over the years, showcased leading cultural figures such as poet Adonis, filmmaker Michel Khleifi, novelist Ahdaf Soueif. Visual artists were given their first UK solo exhibitions, including established artists Mona Saudi, Marwan Kassab-Bachi, Hanaa Malallah, Mohamed Melehi, and Mohammad Omar Khalil, as well as contemporary artists such Hayv Kahraaman, Larissa Sansour, Marwa Arsanios and Samia Henni. Emerging artists also participated in group shows. Collaborations with renowned institutions such as Delfina Foundation (London), Museum of Modern Art (Ljubljana), Beirut Art Centre, Townhouse Gallery (Cairo), MACAAL (Marrakech), and Framer Framed (Amsterdam) further solidified The Mosaic Rooms’ international reputation as a hub for cultural exchange and discovery.
A hallmark of the institution’s work is its commitment to community-building and championing bold creativity. Its specialised bookshop and rich archive are invaluable resources for researchers and Arab culture enthusiasts alike. The annual Edward Said Lectures, launched in 2010, foster critical global discourse on pressing regional issues and are recognized as one of the UK’s most significant cultural events. For many years, The Mosaic Rooms also hosted and supported Shubbak Festival of Arab Culture in London.
Today marks a new chapter for Mosaic Rooms, as the organisation takes an important step toward independence from the A.M. Qattan Foundation.
As it embarks on this journey, we also bid farewell to friend and colleague Rachael Jarvis, whose leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the organisation. Her dedication has guided The Mosaic Rooms through years of growth and transformation, shaping its identity and strengthening its role as a vital cultural platform. We extend our deepest gratitude for her commitment and care during this transition.
At the same time, we are delighted to welcome Pip Day as the new Director. A curator, writer, and educator, Pip brings a wealth of international experience and a practice rooted in collaboration, solidarity, and change-making. From championing artists in Montréal to curating programmes in Mexico City, her work connects art with the political, social, and cultural urgencies of our time. Pip's vision will guide Mosaic Rooms into its next phase with renewed energy and purpose.
As Mosaic Rooms embraces this exciting transformation, it remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and artistic exchange. While the building has been temporarily closed in 2025 for an ambitious refurbishment, community programmes and partnerships have continued throughout. New projects are underway, collaborations are evolving, and a revitalised digital presence will launch soon. The doors will reopen in the new year with an inspiring season of exhibitions and events.
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For further information, please contact
Suzanne Jarrar - Deniz
s.deniz@qattanfoundation.org
Senior Manager, Communications and Advocacy A.M Qattan Foundation
Pip Day Mosaic Rooms Director
pip@mosaicrooms.org