Creative Voices, Activist Voices - Closing Party

Come and join us for a party to celebrate the culmination of the Creative Voices, Activist Voices exhibition on Wednesday 4 March 2026, 5–8pm, at Arbeit Studios, Trowbridge Gardens, London E9 5LD.

Since August 2024, the exhibition has travelled across the UK, including from Portrush to Blackburn, from Stirling to Bromley and now concludes its tour in East London. Join us for an extra special celebration and one last chance to see the exhibition. 

This exhibition presents findings from a research project funded by the Collaborate Fund (Centre for Cultural Value), with the tour supported by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), jointly led by Fun Palaces and sociologist Dr Katy Pilcher. Together they investigated whether communities who make creative and cultural experiences for themselves also create ways to have their needs heard.

The project highlights how communities come together across social divides to share knowledge and create cultural value while exploring how cultural participation might unlock wider civic activism and address the barriers and social inequalities preventing this from happening.

The findings of the research are presented through stories, photographs and objects shared by those who participated in the research project, bringing to life the experiences of Fun Palaces Makers from across the UK and demonstrating what their Fun Palaces have led to.

Join us for an extra-special celebration of creativity and civic activism with delicious food provided by Thingy Café. The evening will feature hands-on creative activities, space for conversation, and contributions from members of the research team: Dr Katy Pilcher (Aston University), Rachel Attfield (Fun Palaces Producer) and Amie Taylor (Fun Palaces Director). All talks will be BSL interpreted.

Details:

17.00: Welcome 

Throughout the evening

• Food and soft drinks provided by Thingy café with a pay bar

• Hands-on Activities and a slide show of photos and quotes from the exhibition

18.30: Presentation/talks

19.00: A chance to chat

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible and there will be a BSL interpreter present. For further access requirements, please email amie@funpalaces.co.uk