bemix members are working alongside local partners and community organisations to co-produce a new exhibition at The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge in Canterbury.

The exhibition, “Canterbury: Our Community” runs from 4 July to 6 September 2026 and celebrates the diverse communities, stories and experiences that shape Canterbury and explores what makes Canterbury a unique place to live, work and play from the perspectives of people who live there.

Developed through The Beaney’s Be Connected network are a group of individuals and organisations from across the district of Canterbury, who work with The Beaney to support and advocate for underrepresented communities.  

The project brings together organisations including bemix, Pride Canterbury, Ethnic Minorities In Canterbury, The University of Kent, Kent Association for the Blind, local faith groups and community creatives to collaboratively create an exhibition that reflects connection, belonging and shared identity.

At bemix, co-production has been at the heart of the project from the very beginning

Members of the Thursday Media Group in Canterbury have been working with our Be Creative group in Dover to develop ideas, collect materials, and shape the creative direction of bemix’s contribution to the exhibition.

Together, members decided to create an artwork called "Transformation", a collaborative installation made from discarded materials collected from the streets of Canterbury. Inspired by environmental art projects and driven by members’ own ideas, the project combines creativity, sustainability and community action. 

                                     

Tom from bemix explained:

“It’s about what connects people to Canterbury and what people feel connected to. Canterbury means different things to different people.”

Members have been out across Canterbury collecting recyclable materials, including bottle caps, cans and other unwanted objects, which will be transformed into artwork with support from Be Creative.

                       

The project has also encouraged members to share personal photographs and stories about the places in Canterbury that matter to them most - from favourite shops and cafés to familiar streets and community spaces.

Steve and Tom from bemix said:

“Hopefully, it will help bring our communities together rather than being separated. It’s about peaceful coexistence and building partnerships for the future.”

By working in partnership with other local organisations and communities, the exhibition highlights the value of co-production, creating opportunities for people to contribute their ideas, experiences and creativity equally.

As well as showcasing artwork and photography, the exhibition will invite visitors to share their own reflections and experiences of Canterbury, helping to continue conversations and connections beyond the gallery space.

A message from The Beaney's Be Connected Network …

“We hope by visiting the Beaney today you can take a moment, explore another’s perspective, and take in our city from a new angle.” 

The "Canterbury: Our Community" exhibition opens at The Beaney on Saturday, 4 July 2026 through to 6th September 2026

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