Francis Alÿs's Ricochets at Barbican Centre explores children's improvised games across conflict zones

The Barbican Centre in London is showcasing Francis Alÿs's exhibition, Ricochets, which includes 40 films from more than 15 nations, with a focus on conflict areas such as Ukraine and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These films highlight children engaged in games, showcasing their capacity to impose order. Alÿs, a Belgian artist born in 1959 who has lived in Mexico since 1986, initiated his Children's Games series in 1999, making Ricochets its inaugural presentation in the UK. The exhibit features stools for movement, oil paintings depicting children amidst political contexts, and animations of hand games. Two interactive playrooms designed by Rafael Ortega are included, along with a display of historical game names and contributions from local children at St Luke's Primary School. The exhibition is open until unspecified dates.