Published: Wednesday 12 October 2022
A new exhibition of art and photography created by survivors of modern slavery is being launched in London this month by charity Hestia, ahead of Anti-Slavery Day (Tuesday 18 October).
The ‘Art is Freedom’ exhibition, now celebrating its fifth year, has been curated by two survivors of modern slavery who have been supported by Hestia, alongside HRH Princess Eugenie, Julia de Boinville, and Maria Gavira San Martin from the Anti-Slavery Collective. It is free to attend and will be on display from Friday 14 to Sunday 23 October outside South Kensington underground station, Trafalgar Square and London Bridge station.
Modern slavery is a serious crime affecting an estimated 136,000 people across the UK – but it is a crime that is often hidden. Hestia’s exhibition aims to change perceptions of modern slavery, to enable the British public to recognise that it happens in London and the UK and that anyone can become a victim of criminals.
Councillor Emma Will, Lead Member for Community Safety, Kensington and Chelsea Council said, “Modern slavery is sadly happening in London and impacting our communities. The police can only tackle modern slavery if everyone knows the signs and can help identify victims and survivors. The Art is Freedom exhibition in Kensington and Chelsea is a chance to hear survivors’ voices. I hope it helps people understand this hidden crime and encourages more people to come forward and report their concerns.”
One of the survivors featured in the exhibition said: “Being part of Art is Freedom has been a lifeline for me. I met so many others who had been through similar things to me, I made friends and one day I even taught the art class. This inspired me to go back to college and get some more qualifications. I have always enjoyed school and learning, and I have so many dreams and aspirations.”
HRH Princess Eugenie, co-founder of The Anti-Slavery Collective, said: “The Art is Freedom exhibition has supported survivors of modern slavery of all ages, from across the world, for five years now. It is inspiring to see the project give survivors the opportunity to express their feelings, emotions and stories through art. The exhibition also provides an opportunity for those who have experienced modern slavery to gain new skills, which can help to reinforce a sense of community amongst survivors and encourage freedom of expression. This exhibition serves as a space to dispel the stigma around survivors, and let their stories speak for themselves. This year, the Anti-Slavery Collective is honoured to be co-curating the exhibition, and we look forward to helping to shine a light on this important issue.”
Find out how our Modern Slavery and Exploitation Strategy sets out our vision for ending modern slavery in Kensington and Chelsea and how we can all work together to achieve this.
Find out more about the artists and how to spot the signs of modern slavery at hestia.org/artisfreedom.