Sizewell C workers and community unite for ‘vibrant’ art exhibition in Leiston

• Free display opens at Live Well Hub following successful launch in Barnby last year
• Mayor of Leiston-cum-Sizewell: “The exhibition creates a welcoming and uplifting environment for everyone who uses the centre”
• Exhibition uses creativity to support wellbeing, inclusion, and local connection

A free touring art exhibition celebrating the creative talents of the Sizewell C workforce is now on display at Live Well Hub in Leiston, and features contributions from local artists for the first time.

The exhibition, which launched in Barnby near Lowestoft last year, showcases the work of 18 artists, including 15 from Sizewell C and three from the local community.

Organised by  Sizewell Creative – Sizewell C’s community-focused initiative promoting the arts – the exhibition features a range of artwork including photography, watercolour paintings, and abstract designs.

Lesley Hill, Mayor of Leiston‑cum‑Sizewell, said: “I warmly congratulate Sizewell Creative on this vibrant and thoughtful display of artworks at the Waterloo Centre. The exhibition creates a welcoming and uplifting environment for everyone who uses the centre – whether for mental health and wellbeing support through the Live Well Hub, or for training, meetings and other professional events. It is a wonderful example of how creativity can enrich shared community spaces.”

Originally designed to celebrate the artistic talents of people working on the Sizewell C project, the exhibition highlights the role creativity can play in supporting wellbeing and self-expression.

Bryony Peall, manager of Live Well Hub, added: “The exhibition has been warmly received by everyone that’s been to the centre, whether they’re members of staff or service users. It’s been just a complete joy seeing people’s faces looking at the art, and it’s opened up a lot of conversations.”

The display officially opened in Leiston at a private viewing event on Wednesday evening.

The move to the Live Well Hub at the Waterloo Centre places the exhibition at the heart of the town, making it easily accessible and visible to the local community, and reflects the project’s emphasis on inclusion, collaboration, and local connection.

Steven Teeder, a plant operator for Sizewell C contractor Laing O’Rourke, whose artwork is featured in the exhibition, said: “Sizewell C’s workforce has been given a fantastic opportunity to showcase their talents beyond their day-to-day roles, highlighting creativity and personal expression.

“Having our work displayed locally not only celebrates the individuals behind the project but also strengthens the connection with the community. It offers a chance for people to see a different side of those contributing to Sizewell C, creating pride, engagement, and a shared sense of achievement that extends well beyond the workplace.”

Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition, take inspiration from the range of creative works – including pieces from Sizewell C’s Artist in Residence, Les Bicknell – and experience a unique example of how local organisations and communities can come together through a shared love of art.

The exhibition is open to the public Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 09:00 to 17:00. No booking is required.

After Leiston, the exhibition will continue its tour of Suffolk. It is produced by First Light Festival CIC, in partnership with Sizewell Creative.

Maxine Budd, Corporate Project Manager at Sizewell Creative, said: “Working with local organisations such as The Live Well Hub is central to how we deliver projects through Sizewell Creative. The exhibition has bought colour and joy to the centre, helped welcome new visitors through the doors, and now includes work from community artists alongside hidden talents from the Sizewell C workforce – all creating a shared platform for creativity and shared expression across the community.”