We Grow Here: Celebrating Young People’s Creativity at M Shed

Open 11 November – 4 January 

We Grow Here is a collaborative exhibition from 1625 Independent People, M Shed and local authorities, celebrating the creativity, voices, and perspectives of young people across Bristol. 

The exhibition features over 70 pieces of art- ranging from paint, digital art, drawing to written word- created by young people who have experienced, or been at risk of, homelessness and/or the care system. Each piece reflects their experiences, aspirations, and imagination, making this a unique showcase of young people’s talent and storytelling. 

This exhibition coincides with National Care Leavers’ Month, which celebrates care leavers and raises awareness of their experiences, achievements, and ongoing needs across the country. 

Shaped Entirely by Young People 

From choosing the exhibition title to writing the descriptive text and curating the space, every detail of We Grow Here has been shaped by young people. Step into their world and experience growth, identity, and hope brought to life through art. 

Explore the exhibition at M Shed (11 Nov – 4 Jan) and discover the stories, ideas, and voices of Bristol’s young people. 

A Word from One of the Young Curators 

“Bristol is a city known for its innovation – where creativity meets passion and skill. We have been at the forefront of change and progress for decades. From the engineering genius of the suspension bridge to the actions shown during BLM, we are a city unafraid to make a mark. 

But where does that begin? Where do the changemakers take their first steps? Where do they become who they are? Where do they first discover their passions and dream of greatness? 

It’s simple: it starts at home. Our roots – the vines of life that shape us – our earliest experiences, the people who raised us, the culture we grew up knowing. All these things shape and form the people we are today. While most of us may not go on to design the next suspension bridge or become the next prime minister, we are all changemakers in our own way. We actively shape the future every day, even with our smallest choices – choices influenced by our roots. 

We want to show you how they’ve shaped us, so that together we may shape the future ahead through one of the purest forms of self-expression: art. 

Whether it be pieces showing the gritty reality of life as a young adult, to the pieces that show the brilliance of Bristol and its many landmarks and finally, the art pieces that show life in its most fantastical and surreal forms. 

Enjoy the exhibition!” 

A huge thank you to M Shed for giving us the space to let young people express themselves so powerfully. This exhibition would not have been possible without their support and dedication to amplifying young voices.