FINDING Creativity and Connection After Modern Slavery
Art is Freedom is a powerful initiative developed by the charity Hestia, offering survivors of modern slavery a platform to express themselves creatively and reclaim their voices. Delivered in collaboration with a range of partners, the project culminates in an annual exhibition marking Anti-Slavery Day.
Earlier this year, thanks to support from multinational law firm Ashurst, Create was proud to collaborate with Hestia to deliver a series of painting workshops led by our professional artist Alba. These enabled 16 participants to explore the theme ‘Seen and Heard’ through visual art.
One participant, who remains anonymous, shared their reflections on the experience – from learning new artistic techniques to rediscovering a sense of purpose and pride.
CREATIVITY AND INSPIRATION
“I took part in choosing the theme this year with Hestia. So I really wanted to create something to respond to ‘Seen and Heard’. [I was] inspired by loads of things around me.”
The painting workshops encouraged creative experimentation through a wide range of techniques and materials.
“Alba introduced us to many techniques – we used different types of paints and brushes and created our own brushes and collage. I liked that Alba has so many tricks up her sleeve. She has so many tools – her warm-up sessions always amaze me. It makes us interactive and it opened up my horizons. I’ve never thought of using shaving foams or natural materials to [make art]. I had loads of fun.”
Exploring art in new ways offered more than just creative insight – it sparked joy, imagination and discovery in a space designed for healing and connection.
THE POWER OF CREATIVITY
Art is often a mirror – but it’s also a tool. For those dealing with trauma, it can provide a vital sense of identity and achievement.
“[Being creative] proves that I have the ability to do something else and really to achieve something for myself. I’m proud to see my work in all these different venues.“
It makes me feel like [my life] is not all about dealing with my legal case all the time.
ART IS FREEDOM Participant
Equally important was the chance to build community with others who shared similar experiences.
“[The other participants] have so much thought and they use colours differently and [have] different expressive tools. I like the vibe, people doing things together. I’m really looking forward to seeing how people grow.”
THE IMPORTANCE OF HESTIA
Through Hestia, survivors of modern slavery are not only supported practically, but emotionally – and creatively.
“Hestia has been [helpful] in so many different ways, like financial support, training and art [programmes]. It completely changed my life and it made me feel useful again.”
A CONTINUED NEED FOR SUPPORT
While modern slavery affects people of all ages, over 50% of referrals into the National Referral Mechanism each year are adults – meaning more than half of potential victims are adults with complex recovery needs.
Art-based programmes like Art is Freedom offer vital spaces where survivors can heal, express, and rebuild identity beyond their experiences of exploitation.
Create is proud to collaborate with Ashurst and Hestia on Art is Freedom, ensuring that survivors are not only supported, but celebrated for their courage, creativity and resilience.
