Art Exhibition at the Foxton Centre Explores the Path to Wellbeing

The Harris in collaboration with The Foxton Centre is pleased to announce an upcoming art exhibition that delves into the journey towards wellbeing through artistic expression. The exhibition will be held throughout September at The Foxton Centre in Preston, with a focus on the theme of the five ways to wellbeing, exploring the five senses and the four seasons through art and collaboration.

The Harris, Preston's renowned Museum, Art Gallery and Library has partnered with The Foxton Centre, a well-established Preston-based charity, that has a rich history of community engagement, catering to the needs of both adults and young people. The aim is to create an exceptional art project that inspires and uplifts the local community which opens on the Celebrating The Foxton Community Day.

The exhibition promises to be thought-provoking, featuring a large-scale group art project created from small canvases, coming together to form a magnificent artwork. This collaborative endeavour symbolises the power of unity and shared creativity. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to admire individual artworks contributed by talented artists from The Foxton Centre Art Group.

Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for culture and leisure services at Preston City Council, said:

"We are thrilled to partner with The Foxton Centre for this inspiring art project. Through the exploration of the five ways to wellbeing and the artistic interpretation of the five senses and the four seasons, we aim to ignite a sense of joy, connection, and personal growth within our community."

Cath Coffey, Development and Youth and Community Manager at The Foxton Centre added:

"The Foxton Youth and Community Centre are delighted to work in partnership with The Harris and we are really proud of everyone who took part in the art project. We are glad to host the exhibition and let others see the amazing skills of a whole range of people from our local community. This artwork has been completed by all ages and individuals and has been a lovely welcoming group to anyone who has walked through the door. This will be our last large event before we close the building for our renovations and our exciting new build that's coming in 2024. We look forward to seeing everyone."

The exhibition serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to promote mental and emotional wellbeing. By engaging the community in this creative endeavour, The Harris and The Foxton Centre seek to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among participants.

Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in this unique artistic experience at The Foxton Centre, located at Knowsley St, Avenham Ln, Preston PR1 3SA.  The exhibition will be open to the public starting on Thursday 31 August, open for viewing on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 1pm until 3pm.

The Harris is currently operating from other local spaces around Preston, with plans for pop-up exhibitions and events in 2023.

More information

About the Harris

Opened in 1893, the Grade I listed building is owned and managed by Preston City Council. Based in Preston, Lancashire, the Harris is one of the leading museums, galleries and libraries in the region. Host to art collections of national significance, exciting activities and events for all ages and an award-winning contemporary art programme, the Harris welcomed over 380,000 visitors in 2018/2019.

We are currently delivering Harris Your Place, a major capital project made possible with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund; Towns Fund; Preston City Council; Lancashire County Council; the Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal; DCMS; Arts Council England, public donations and a wide range of Trusts and Foundations.

We will re-open our magnificent Grade I Listed building in 2024 and are already working with Community Partners to deliver a programme of events and activities throughout closure and from day one of re-opening.

About The Foxton Centre

The Foxton Centre is a distinguished Preston-based charity dedicated to providing essential support and services to the local community, including adults and young people. With a strong commitment to promoting well-being, the Foxton Centre aims to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all.