An art installation depicting the suffering of the people of Ukraine has been unveiled.

The artwork of the 13 feet high silhouettes, placed near the Mazda Fountain in Brighton, depicts various figures to highlight the plight of those affected by the ongoing Russian invasion.

The steel monument shows a soldier holding a baby, while leading a refugee mother and a child to safety.

Created by community group Standing with Giants, the installation has been touring around the country and has already visited other coastal towns, including Portsmouth and Worthing.

The group has also created several other art installations to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Falklands War and in tribute to NHS heroes.

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Founder of Standing with Giants Dan Barton worked in collaboration with artist Peter Naylor to help produce the artwork.

“Ukrainian refugees and charities have been invited to visit and use the installation to help raise awareness and funds for those suffering in Ukraine,” Mr Barton said.

“Art can send a powerful message to aggressors and show a meaningful message of solidarity to those in need.

“Everywhere we take this sculpture, we see an outpouring of emotion.”

The launch in Brighton was attended by the city’s outgoing Mayor Lizzie Deane.

She said: “The city of Brighton and Hove is pleased and proud to welcome Ukrainian refugees, and this sculpture will serve to remind residents and visitors alike of their presence within our community, and our willingness to help and support them as much as we can for the duration of this terrible conflict.”

The Argus: A child in the steel sculpture is depicted carrying a toy rabbit with a Ukraine heart pendantA child in the steel sculpture is depicted carrying a toy rabbit with a Ukraine heart pendant (Image: The Argus)

Standing with Giants is raising money for local support groups Brighton and Hove for Ukraine and Stand for Ukraine Brighton and Hove.

A spokeswoman for Brighton and Hove for Ukraine said: “We can provide sponsors living in Brighton and Hove and liaise with anyone local who can offer help such as English lessons, jobs or accommodation.

“We want to make them feel as welcome as possible here and help them recover from the trauma they’ve experienced.”

The sculpture will be on display in Brighton until May 31, when it will visit Dover and Brussels.

Since the launch of the Homes for Ukraine scheme to house refugees fleeing the conflict, 530 have arrived in Brighton and Hove.