New community art exhibition

Artwork created by learners from Milton Keynes charity MK Snap is now on display at Unity Place, following a special launch event in March 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 Gerry, 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, Gerry 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. 

‘Holding Hope’ – Emma

This painting portrays a solitary penguin gently holding a heart-shaped balloon against a vibrant yellow backdrop. Penguins live in some of the harshest environments on earth, yet they survive by supporting one another and working together as a community. The red heart balloon symbolizes love, care, and celebration. Together, these elements reflect the spirit of MK SNAP — a community built on support, compassion, and shared strength.

MK’s Concrete Icon - Stuart
This vibrant painting celebrates one of Milton Keynes’ most recognisable symbols — the iconic concrete cows.
This painting celebrates the identity and humour of the city we call home. Through bold colours and playful style, the artwork reflects pride in our community and reminds us that MK SNAP is an important part of the Milton Keynes story.

Love in Unity – Collaboration of MK SNAP Learners
This artwork features two hands forming the shape of a heart, with the letter “U” at its centre. The heart symbolizes love, care, and connection, while the “U” pays tribute to Unity Place, a cornerstone of the Milton Keynes community and the home of this exhibition. The piece serves as a reminder that each of us has the power to foster kindness and bring people together.

The Future is Inclusive – Anita & Stuart
Inspired by graffiti and stencil art styles used by artists such as Banksy, this bold and expressive piece carries a powerful message. “The Future is Inclusive” celebrates the importance of listening to every voice. It reflects the belief that people with learning disabilities should be seen, heard, and included in all parts of society.

 The Whisper – Collaboration of MK SNAP Learners
This painting is inspired by “The Whisper” sculpture outside Milton Keynes Library. The artwork shows the sculpture from behind, where the figures appear to have an arm around each other as they look out over the city. 
From this perspective, the sculpture symbolises friendship, kindness, and togetherness — values that are at the heart of both Milton Keynes and MK SNAP.

Butterflies of Change – Narmeen & Henry
In this artwork, butterflies have been carefully cut out and layered to create a three-dimensional effect, bringing the piece to life.
Butterflies are powerful symbols of transformation. They begin life as caterpillars before becoming something beautiful. Arranged in the shape of a heart, the butterflies represent growth, confidence, and the supportive community that helps people flourish.

Labels are for Jars - Gerry
Painted with remarkable detail by our learner Gerry, this vibrant artwork features a ketchup-style bottle carrying a bold message: Labels are for jars, not for people. The piece serves as a powerful reminder to look beyond stereotypes and celebrate the individuality of everyone in the community.