Alton’s Freedom Through Expression Gallery – A Colourful, Creative Day Out

The FTE Art Gallery is looking forward to celebrating it’s first anniversary in September. The gallery exhibits art and craft by people with disabilities, local artists and crafts people as Glynis Watts tells us

Discover Alton’s Freedom Through Expression Art Gallery

Alton’s Freedom Through Expression Art Gallery continues to attract locals and visitors alike. They enjoy the ever-changing exhibitions, unique craft displays, and engaging Saturday watercolour classes.

A Historic Building with a Purpose

Housed in a beautiful Grade II listed building, the Gallery also includes Freedom Framing and Printing alongside its art and craft workshops. These ventures belong to the Trust Fund for Training Disabled Children in the Arts, which has supported young people and schools since 1987.

Celebrating Artist Tom Yendell’s OBE

We’re thrilled to announce that the talented artist Tom Yendell was awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025. Tom, a member of the Mouth and Foot Painters Artists (MFPA) and Chair of the Trust Fund, drives many projects supporting young people with disabilities.

For nearly 40 years, Tom has created bold, colorful artworks and advocated for inclusion, education, and creativity. The Gallery proudly hosts a permanent exhibition featuring prints and originals from over 800 worldwide MFPA artists. The range of subjects and styles means there is something for every taste and wall space.

Engaging Exhibitions and Live Demonstrations

The Gallery regularly hosts artist demonstrations that draw large crowds. Mouth and Foot painters, in particular, are crowd favorites. Later this year, Trust Trustee Keith Jansz will hold a solo exhibition with live demos. Last year, Bazza West impressed visitors with his vibrant bird paintings. Recently, local artist Tim Burns and basket maker Angela Cross showcased their talents. In June, the Fleet Women artists collective presented a diverse and stunning display. July featured a schools’ exhibition highlighting Treloars.

Upcoming: Unique Art Awards 2025

This September, the Gallery will display the winning entries of the 2025 Unique Art Awards—another inspiring project by Tom Yendell, supported by the Trust Fund.

Stay Connected and Visit Us

To stay updated on new exhibitions, demonstrations, or to join workshops, sign up for our mailing list by emailing gallery@freedomthroughexpression.art. The Gallery welcomes visitors Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm.

A Welcoming Space for All

Officially opened by Alan Titchmarsh last September, the Gallery has become a cherished spot for Altonians and visitors. Many come to enjoy the diverse art, unusual crafts, and popular Saturday classes.

To learn more about the gallery, visit here.

To read more about your area, click here.

Share