Art exhibitions often feel exclusive, leaving many young people feeling overlooked. But what if we flipped the script? Instead of accepting the lack of accessible art spaces for children, what if we used our platforms to amplify their creativity, celebrating their efforts, fuelling their passion, and nurturing their perseverance?

That’s exactly what I witnessed at Trinity Buoy Wharf, and it left me inspired.

The Journey to Artistic Belonging

Our second daughter’s artistic journey recently led us to the National Saturday Club (NSC), where our she has been honing her skills under the guidance of Emily Jo Gibbs, an accomplished textile artist and current artist-in-residence, and Rosie Merriman, the NSC coordinator.

Every other Saturday since January, we make the journey to the Wharf, and while she immerses herself in inspiring and engaging workshops by Emily or Rosie, I soak in the Orchard Cafe’s charm, sipping Earl Grey tea, indulging in a toffee muffin, and gazing out at the breathtaking views of the O2 and Canary Wharf. It’s become a ritual of rest, reflection, and quiet admiration.





Emily Jo Gibbs: Making the Unseen Visible

Today was something truly memorable.

I had the unexpected pleasure and privilege of speaking with Emily during her exhibition, and what she shared, and showcased, left a lasting impression. Her work wasn’t just creative; it was deeply human. Through delicate, intricate stitching, she honoured the often-unnoticed individuals who keep Trinity Buoy Wharf alive and thriving.

As Emily shared, “Shining a light on the people and places that are often overlooked through the act of making is a vital part of my practice.” And that ethos was beautifully woven into every piece on display.

It was art as recognition. Art as storytelling. Art that says, “I see you.”

The exhibition featured:

  • A procession of Makers – Portraits of unseen workers of Trinity Buoy Wharf, rendered in Emily’s signature stitched artistry.

  • Self-stitched portraits of over 100 primary school children she mentored.

  • Works by the talented NSC teens, including my daughter and her classmates.


This art show was a quiet revolution in representation. Emily used her very first exhibition to lift others up, to showcase the faces, stories, and efforts often overlooked. That act of generosity deserves celebration in its own right.



Art: A Safe Space And A Source of Strength

Emily’s work, and her approach, reminded me why art matters so deeply. Not just as a final product, but as a process. Art, at its core, is about expression, freedom, and joy. It provides a space to breathe, create, and simply be. The fact that Emily is cultivating this for so many young minds is truly commendable.

She’s offering young people a space where their voices and visions matter. Where they are seen, guided, and given permission to dream boldly. That alone is priceless.

Meeting her parents, beaming with pride, was the cherry on top. This exhibition may be her first at Trinity Buoy Wharf, but I’m certain it won’t be her last.



A Word To Parents: Let Them Create

If you have a child or teenager with a creative spark, I can’t recommend the National Saturday Club highly enough. The sessions are completely free, the environment is affirming, and the learning goes far beyond technique, it’s about identity, collaboration, and voice.

My daughter and her classmates have been profoundly enriched by Emily’s mentorship and the NSC’s incredible work, and I know countless others would be too.

Today’s exhibition wraps up on Sunday, 18 May 2025. But I’ll be watching eagerly for the next one, and I’ll be following @EmilyJoGibbs on Instagram for updates.


Celebrate Your Children’s Creativity

Let’s not wait for the “right time” to celebrate our children’s creativity. Let’s create that time, make that space, and amplify their voices now.

Because when young people are seen, something powerful happens: They begin to see themselves, as artists, as storytellers, as changemakers.

And that is where the real masterpiece begins.


Have you visited an exhibition that left you moved or motivated? Tag the artist or drop your reflections below, let’s celebrate the art that lifts others.

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