Exhibition Challenges Perceptions of Disability

A learning disability service based in South London has launched a powerful and thought-provoking art and photography exhibition.

The landmark exhibition showcases striking professional portraits of the adults - known as ‘trainees’ - who attend the award-winning Community-Interest-Company (CIC) Nickel Support.

Titled ‘Challenging Perceptions’, the exhibition explores the theme of questioning societal perceptions of learning disability. The portraits, taken by photographer Yani Yordanova, celebrate the people behind the label of disability and offer a personal insight into the lives of individuals who are often overlooked or misunderstood.

“This isn’t just an art exhibition - it’s a bold statement,” says Nick Walsh, Co-Founder at Nickel Support, established to nurture and give purpose to adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.

“We’re handing the narrative back to our trainees, giving them a space to be seen as they want to be seen and on their own terms.”

In addition, exhibition visitors will have the opportunity to view art prints and designs completed by trainees in a recent art project with artists Kate Marsden and Jo Sharpe, funded by Arts Network Sutton.

The exhibition, sponsored by The RTR Foundation, Bedrock Human Resources and SM1 Print Studio, promises to be groundbreaking in both content and impact.

The exhibition will run until January 10, 2026, at the Whitehall Historic House, Malden Road, Cheam, Sutton, SM3 8QD, Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm. Admission is free.

For further information visit https://www.nickel.org.uk/