Artwork created by learners from Milton Keynes charity MK Snap is now on display at Unity Place, following a special launch event that celebrated creativity, community and inclusion.
Seven artworks created by MK Snap learners were selected for the exhibition, each sharing a powerful message about community, individuality and inclusion.
The exhibition is now officially open to visitors to Unity Place.
MK Snap provides a leading programme of learning, life skills, work preparation and employment opportunities for adults aged 18 and over with learning disabilities. Its programmes help learners develop the skills, confidence and support needed to realise their potential while fostering independence, personal growth and community inclusion.
The artwork, selected by MK Snap tutors and learners from the charity’s canvas art sessions, were chosen for the meaningful messages they convey about the MK SNAP community while also connecting with the wider Milton Keynes community.
Several designs reference well-known local landmarks, including the iconic Concrete Cows and the Whispering Statue outside Milton Keynes Central Library. In some pieces, the letter “U” has also been incorporated into the design, celebrating the collaboration between MK Snap and Unity Place and highlighting the creativity and talents of the learners involved.
One of the featured artworks, Holding Hope, by learner Emma, depicts a penguin holding a heart-shaped balloon against a vibrant yellow background – a symbol of resilience and the strength found in community support.
Another standout piece, Labels Are for Jars, painted with remarkable attention to detail by learner Jerry, features a ketchup-style bottle carrying the bold message: “Labels are for jars, not for people.” The colourful artwork challenges stereotypes and celebrates individuality.
Speaking at the launch event, MK Snap Centre Director Steven Carruthers said the exhibition was an opportunity to recognise the achievements of the charity’s learners.
“Tonight is really about celebrating our learners, their creativity and everything they achieve every day,” he said.
“Art has always been something I believe in deeply, not just for the joy of creating it, but for the stories it tells. For our learners, art can be a powerful way to express themselves, build confidence and challenge misconceptions about people with learning disabilities.”
He added that the quality of the artwork often surprises visitors: “People sometimes ask if our learners really painted these pieces – and the answer is yes, they absolutely did. With the right support, encouragement and opportunity, people can achieve incredible things, and the work displayed here proves that.”
Learner Jerry, whose piece Labels Are for Jars is part of the exhibition, described the challenge of perfecting his artwork.
“I really focused on getting the colours right and paying attention to the details. It was challenging, but I’m proud of how it turned out.”
In a video shown during the launch event, Jerry also spoke about the impact MK Snap has had on his life, explaining that the charity has given him a sense of purpose and the opportunity to develop his creativity.
Claire O’Neill, Head of Enterprise at MK Snap, said opportunities to exhibit work in public spaces through partnerships like Unity Place play a vital role in building confidence and strengthening community connections for learners.
“Partnerships with organisations like Unity Place are incredibly important to MK Snap. They allow our learners to share their creativity in public spaces and connect with the wider Milton Keynes community.
“Projects like this help learners build confidence, social skills and a real sense of belonging.”
Speaking at the launch, Adam Holbrook, Head of Placemaking for Unity Place, said the exhibition highlights the importance of community collaboration:
“Unity Place was created as a space where people, creativity and community come together, so we’re delighted to showcase the incredible work of MK Snap’s learners.
The artwork is vibrant, thoughtful and inspiring, and we’re proud to provide a platform for these talented artists to share their stories with the wider Milton Keynes community.”
The MK Snap exhibition can be viewed at Unity Place during opening hours.
For more information, visit https://www.unityplace.co.uk/.
