10 Years of Rebuilding Lives Together
Art, memory and belonging at Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre
Every artwork in the exhibition commemorating 10 years of Elmbridge CAN carried something of home. 10 Years of Rebuilding Lives Together celebrated the creativity, talent and resilience of artists who have rebuilt their lives in the UK after being forced to leave their homes, while giving visitors a unique opportunity to meet the artists themselves and learn more about the stories behind their work.
Bringing together artists from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iran, Nigeria and the wider Elmbridge CAN community, the exhibition explored themes of identity, culture, memory and belonging through painting, photography, textiles, poetry, traditional crafts and sculpture. Visitors were invited to look beyond headlines and connect with the experiences, talents and perspectives behind each piece.
The exhibition also marked an important moment for Elmbridge CAN as it officially launched the charity's year as the Mayor of Elmbridge's chosen charity. Opened by the new Mayor of Elmbridge, Councillor Judy Sarsby, the event formed part of the celebrations marking the beginning of her mayoral year and brought together artists, supporters, volunteers and local residents in a spirit of welcome and community.
While each artist brought their own unique story, common themes ran throughout the exhibition. Memory, belonging, resilience, cultural identity and hope all found expression through their work.
For some artists, creativity became a way of making sense of major life changes. Ukrainian artist YB began painting only after arriving in England, transforming homesickness and loss into striking surreal works that explore memory, identity and beauty. SM's work reflected journeys of change, healing and hope, while AS examined how identity is shaped by memory, personal experience and the world around us.
The exhibition also celebrated the traditions and cultural heritage that people carry with them wherever they go. MH's glass paintings drew on Persian decorative arts, TA showcased traditional Afghan clothing and jewellery, and TM shared vibrant Ukrainian folk art inspired by both her homeland and the natural beauty she has discovered in the UK.
Other artists explored identity through photography, poetry and painting. GL's Code of the Nation celebrated Ukrainian culture and everyday life, while young poet NB shared his dream of peace through a poem written after arriving in England as a child. Together, the works highlighted the many ways creativity can help people express experiences, preserve memories and build connections.
The exhibition was made possible through the generous support of Riverhouse Barn, whose beautiful venue provided a welcoming setting for the event. Throughout the week, visitors from across Elmbridge had the chance not only to enjoy the artwork but also to meet many of the artists, hear the stories behind their work and take part in conversations that might not otherwise have happened.
It was also a fantastic opportunity for artists to share and sell their work. Many pieces found new homes during the exhibition, with all proceeds going directly to the artists themselves. For several exhibitors, it was one of their first opportunities to showcase their work to a wider audience and benefit directly from their creativity.
Alongside the exhibition, visitors were able to meet Elmbridge CAN's volunteer team and learn more about the charity's work supporting people seeking sanctuary and rebuilding their lives in Elmbridge. The event provided an opportunity to find out how to get involved through volunteering, fundraising, donating or supporting Elmbridge CAN's work in the local community.
Elmbridge CAN began in 2016, when a small group of local residents came together in response to the Syrian refugee crisis, asking a simple question: what can we do to help? From those early conversations, a community-led charity grew. Working alongside local partners and volunteers, Elmbridge CAN welcomed the first resettled families to the area, offering both practical support and a warm, inclusive community.
Over the past ten years, the organisation has expanded in response to global events, supporting people fleeing conflict in Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine and many other countries. Today, Elmbridge CAN offers a wide range of services and supports hundreds of families as they build stable, independent lives in Elmbridge and beyond.
As Elmbridge CAN celebrates its tenth anniversary, 10 Years of Rebuilding Lives Together was a celebration of creativity, culture and community. Most of all, it was a reminder that while people may leave countries and homes behind, they also carry with them skills, traditions, talents and stories that enrich the communities they become part of.
Journey of a Ukrainian Boy
by NB, age 10
Mum, me and one suitcase
Three of us only...
I left my cat, I left my dog
And all my dreams behind the fog.
I was just five, but I looked like more
Because I knew the world of war.
New country, language, school and
friends. Thanks to everyone who helps.
I started to smile and play the games
And I can start to hope again.
I want the world to see my joy
PEACE is the biggest dream of a Ukrainian boy!