The Wise Group presents: The Art of Breaking Down Barriers
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:
