Acorn Village: 50 Years

    Next: Wednesday, 30 April 2025

    Runs until Sunday, 7 September 2025 (See all dates)

    Time
    10:00 - 17:00
    Venue
    Firstsite, Colchester, CO1 1JH
    Price
    Free

    Discover the inspiring 50-year journey of Acorn Village, told through a rich collection of artworks created by artists with learning disabilities.

    More Information (Actual Radio is not responsible for external websites)

    This exhibition marks the 50-year anniversary of Acorn Village in Manningtree, a charity dedicated to providing care and support for adults with learning disabilities since 1975, when it welcomed its first 13 residents.

    Over 50 diverse artworks showcase the creative legacy of Acorn Village, created by artists and residents who have spent the past 20 years developing their skills in the charity’s Day Services and Therapeutic Centre – a unique art learning environment that nurtures creativity and independence.

    What to expect
    Go on a journey through the landscapes of Essex, from Harwich to Wrabness, captured in textures and colours across a series of woven textiles crafted over 10 years.
    Experience paintings inspired by popular culture, abstract nature studies, street scenes, furniture designs, and sculptures influenced by plants and urban forms.
    Learn more about the Acorn Village community’s evolution through archive materials, from its foundation to the present day.

    About the exhibition
    Following on from our series of critically acclaimed exhibitions exploring the artistic community of The East Anglian School of Painting and Drawing at Benton End, this show explores a different art learning environment and its celebration of creativity.

    At Acorn Village, every individual, whatever their disability, is encouraged to follow their dreams and is supported to be as independent as physically possible.

    About Acorn Village
    Acorn Village are a charity based in Manningtree, that offer high quality care and accommodation to adults with learning disabilities, within two models of care, residential and supported living services.

    Most of their objectives are met through daytime activities which encourage social interaction, learning new life skills, crafting, gardening, education, active leisure and entertainment.

    Venue

    Firstsite
    Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, Essex
    Colchester
    CO1 1JH

    More details for this venue

    Dates

    The event runs from 10:00 to 17:00 on the following dates.
    Select a date to add this event to your calendar app.

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