The Art of Breaking Down Barriers - Art Exhibition

The Art of Breaking Down Barriers is a rehabilitation-focused exhibition curated by the Wise Group’s Relational Mentoring team.

On Tuesday 2 September 2025, the Wise Group will open The Art of Breaking Down Barriers at No. 42 Gallery, Bishop Auckland. Curated and organised by the Wise Group, the exhibition is a central part of our Relational Mentoring work - using creativity as a bridge to rehabilitation, belonging, and a life beyond offending.

Bringing together powerful works from artists with lived experience of the justice system, the exhibition invites the public to look beyond stereotypes, reduce stigma, and explore how art can catalyse personal transformation and social connection.

Featured contributors include Koestler Award–winning guest artists whose practice speaks to change, resilience, and identity:

· Kevin Devonport – nationally recognised for emotional depth and social commentary.

· Charles Salvador (formerly known as Charles Bronson) - a controversial figure whose creative journey prompts debate about labels, accountability, and the possibility of change.

Including Salvador’s work is a considered curatorial decision by the Wise Group. The exhibition does not glorify notoriety; it confronts public perception. By giving space to people whose stories are often judged from a distance, we encourage visitors to ask: What does rehabilitation mean if we don’t acknowledge change? Who do we believe is capable of it?

“This exhibition isn’t about excusing the past. It’s about confronting the labels we give people if we don’t see the person beyond the offence. We’re not asking people to agree with everything these artists have done, but to look at the art and the person through a different lens. What does rehabilitation mean if we don’t acknowledge change? What does inclusion look like if it excludes the most stigmatised?”— Julia Harris, Operations Manager, the Wise Group

The curation also honours veterans with justice involvement, recognising the complex challenges many face when returning to civilian life and the role that purpose, connection, and creativity can play in recovery.

At the heart of the exhibition is the Wise Group’s belief that relationships change outcomes. Our mentors go the extra mile - standing alongside people at critical moments, building trust, and opening up routes into community, work, and wellbeing.

The Art of Breaking Down Barriers showcases that philosophy in action.

Event details

·Date: Tuesday, 2 September 2025

·Venue: No. 42 Gallery, 42 Market Place, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7PB

·Time: 10:00–16:00 (open to the public)

If you believe in the power of creativity to change lives, join us.

Contact: julia_harris@thewisegroup.co.uk

In the video below we were joined by Koestler Award-winning artist Kevin Devonport, to talk about art and it's impact on those in the Justice System. He also talks about the inspiration behind the artwork that he will be displaying in the exhibition.From the ability to express yourself, to a feeling of escape from your sentence, art has the capability to hugely impact the lives of those in Justice.Watch the interview, and hear about lived experience, stigma and how we can work better to change the lives of those navigating the Justice System.

Please Note

Curatorial approach & safeguards: The Wise Group has taken a thoughtful, trauma-informed approach to curation. The inclusion of challenging work is contextualised and does not constitute endorsement. Where appropriate, advisory notices will guide visitors.

About the Wise Group: The Wise Group is a social enterprise tackling poverty and unlocking potential across the UK. We deliver Relational Mentoring and integrated support across justice, employability, and energy services - working with partners to reduce reoffending, build resilience, and help people thrive. Our commitment is to go the extra mile for the people and places we serve.