Powered by Smiles: Celebrating 30 years of HEY Children’s University!
Yesterday marked the opening of our very special 30th anniversary art exhibition, 'Powered by Smiles', at Artlink Hull | Gallery 87! But what makes this exhibition even more special is that it has been co-curated by our Children’s Board of Trustees!
The exhibition celebrates three decades of impact through a collection of artwork and archive material from local children, past beneficiaries, volunteers, staff, partners, supporters and trustees. The artwork has been created through bespoke workshops throughout the year, facilitated by Artlink Hull and local artists, bringing together the voices and experiences of those who have been part of the HEY Children’s University journey.
Following the VIP launch yesterday, the exhibition will open to the public and run until 5th December 2026, giving the wider community the opportunity to look back over 30 years of HEYCU, celebrate the people who helped shape its story and experience the powerful visual celebration of learning, creativity, opportunity and community engagement.
Rose James, CEO of Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University, said:
“We are incredibly proud to be celebrating 30 years of HEY Children’s University and doing this through art is the perfect way for our children, supporters and colleagues to express what HEY CU means to them. This exhibition not only reflects the impact our work has on the young people we serve but also demonstrates the power of partnership. Working with Artlink Hull has allowed us to create something truly special that honours our past while inspiring the next generation.”
Lindsey Alvis, CEO of Artlink Hull | 87 Gallery, added:
“We are delighted to collaborate with Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University for this milestone exhibition. Their commitment to empowering young people aligns perfectly with our mission to make creativity accessible to everyone, no matter their background or circumstance. We prioritise working with partners from across the charity sector because we know that together we can achieve more for the communities we serve.”
If you’re in Hull over the next couple of months, we’d love you to pop in and see it!
📍 Artlink Hull, 87 Princes Avenue, Hull, HU5 3QP
📅 Friday 25 September – Saturday 5 December
🕙 Open Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, 10am–4:30pm