The city’s most recognizable sites have been transformed into a canvas for Art is Freedom, an exhibition that brings the voices of modern‑slavery survivors into public view. From bustling squares to historic monuments, the works invite passers‑by to pause and confront a hidden crisis that unfolds on the streets of London.

One of the most moving pieces comes from JR, a man who spent fifty years in forced labor after being taken abroad as a child. After returning to the UK, he faced isolation and severe mental health challenges, but the Hestia workshops reignited his creative spark. Using watercolour, acrylic, graffiti and even knitting, JR describes his art as a rebirth, a way to reclaim his identity after decades of oppression.

Curated by a panel of survivors and the Independent Anti‑Slavery Commissioner, the exhibition’s theme This is me encourages artists to define themselves beyond their trauma. The pieces explore notions of freedom, joy and hope, turning statistics into personal narratives that speak directly to viewers.

Beyond aesthetics, the project aims to turn awareness into action. By drawing attention to the signs of exploitation, the display hopes to empower the public to intervene, share the stories on social media and support the broader fight to end modern slavery.

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