Young artists take centre stage at Kettle’s Yard

Among the impressive collection is ‘Save the Earth!’ by 8-year-old Maria, which calls for urgent action on climate change. Meanwhile, 10-year-old Lilly’s ‘Love the Ocean and Be Thankful’, created during a workshop with the Cambridgeshire charity Centre 33, highlights the importance of respecting marine life.

In her artist statement, Lilly writes, “I feel that people should respect the ocean because I have seen so many articles where people have thrown rubbish in the ocean. I want people to look at this painting and say ‘wow’ and then they will respect the ocean.”

The exhibition also tackles issues of gender equality and women’s rights. Lily, 19, addresses women’s safety in her evocative self-portrait ‘Walk Me Home’, while 18-year-old Elisa’s Fight for Rights emphasizes the importance of visibility and collective action.

Family and friendship are recurring themes throughout the exhibition. Zebbie, 10, captures the joy of family life in his drawing titled ‘Family’, stating, “Family matters because they complete the joy in my life.”

Similarly, 20-year-old University of Cambridge student Anna’s ‘Four Friends on Grantchester Street’ celebrates the bonds formed during her time in the city.