20th April 2026
FREE
When We Are Free is an exhibition and a social statement. Featuring artwork created by Ark-T staff and volunteers in their own free time, the exhibition reflects on what it means to create beyond labour, obligation, and productivity. In a political climate where access to creativity is increasingly stripped away and the class gap within the creative industries continues to grow, we want to affirm that creativity is a fundamental human right—one that positively impacts both individual and collective wellbeing.Ark-T believes that creativity is an essential tool for social liberation and community care, not a luxury reserved for the few. The works in this exhibition emerge from personal moments of freedom: outside job titles, outside expectations, and often within limited time and resources. They are reminders that creative expression persists even within systems that leave little room for rest, reflection, or play.
By bringing together those who use creativity as a way of exploring life, we intentionally dismantle elitist hierarchies around art and cultural production. We occupy this space together to show that every approach—from mark making, written word, photography, drawing and textiles—is equally vital to a healthy, resistant society. We do not just advocate for the restorative power of art; we live it.Our commitment to creative equity extends beyond the gallery walls. Our Welcome Space serves as a living extension of this exhibition: a democratic, free environment open to all.To create is an act of wellness, resistance, and connection. This exhibition honours the voices that sustain our community, showing that we are at our most powerful when we are free to express ourselves.
A Space for All: We welcome every type of creativity, providing a sanctuary to sit, relax, or reflect.
Radical Access: We offer free creative supplies for anyone to use, ensuring that the tools for self-expression are available to everyone, regardless of economic background.
The Vision: To bridge the social divide by honouring the universal impulse to create.
Location: Ark-T’s Welcome Space @ Templars Square, Shop 101 , Oxford, OX4 3XH
Times: Monday to Thursday 10am- 3pm.
No need to book. Just turn up!
We always welcome new volunteers to help us out with events like this. Think you’d like to get involved? Check out the Volunteering page to get started!
