An art exhibition celebrating the creativity, achievements and personal experiences of young people who have been in care is set to open to the public in Hastings later this month.
The exhibition, titled 'Lived It, Learned It, Leading It', will feature artwork and personal stories created by approximately 20 young people who have experienced the care system in East Sussex.
The collection will be on display at The Amici Gallery in Hastings on Friday 30 October, with members of the public invited to visit between 10am and 3pm.
Visitors will be able to explore a wide range of creative work, including fashion design, poetry, photography, drawings, paintings and personal stories.
The exhibition aims to highlight the talents and achievements of the young artists while offering an insight into their experiences, ambitions and hopes for the future.
It also marks the beginning of National Care Leavers' Month in November, an annual opportunity to celebrate care-experienced young people and raise awareness of the challenges they can face as they move towards independence.
East Sussex County Council is encouraging residents to support the exhibition and celebrate the hard work of those involved.
Councillor Victoria Carson, the council's lead member for children and families, said:
“The young people involved in this project have worked extremely hard to produce some very fine pieces of art and they should feel very proud of the results.
“The exhibition is an opportunity to showcase a whole host of wonderful artistic creations and a chance to shine a light on how these young people have transformed their lived experience into learning, growth and leadership.
“We encourage the public to visit the gallery and enjoy the beauty of this collection as well as hear the perspectives, aspirations and personal stories of these extraordinary young people.
“We are delighted to have partnered with the gallery in Hastings and be able to present the art to the public and spread positivity around what young people can accomplish given time and the right support.”
As well as enjoying the exhibition, visitors will have an opportunity to make donations to support social activities for care-experienced young people in East Sussex.
Money raised will help fund events and opportunities to bring young people together, including a Christmas party and a summer barbecue.
The council hopes the exhibition will not only celebrate the artistic talents of those taking part but also encourage greater understanding of the experiences of young people who have spent time in care.
'Lived It, Learned It, Leading It' will be open to the public at The Amici Gallery in Hastings on Friday 30 October, between 10am and 3pm.
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