9 October 2025

Last night, Hestia launched Art is Freedom 2025, the charity’s annual exhibition showcasing artwork and photography by survivors of modern slavery. Now in its eighth year, the exhibition celebrates the transformative power of art in recovery and self-expression.

Over 150 guests joined Hestia at Arcadis, where this year’s artists shared their stories and creative journeys.

A keynote speech was delivered by Baroness Theresa May. Lady May spoke passionately – praising the artists for their work, while stating her commitment to supporting survivors of modern slavery, a crime she described as “the great human rights issue of our time”. Reflecting on her work to introduce the Modern Slavery Act, she emphasised the continuing imperative to protect and empower survivors.

“We can end modern slavery if every one of us plays our part – we all have a role to play. If every business properly looked at their supply chains and did something about it, it would make a huge difference”.

Baroness May commended the artists for their courage and creativity:

“It is through these pieces of art that survivors are able to tell us their story. They’re able to have the thing that they never had before - a voice”.

Seen and Heard

Art is Freedom is a powerful reminder of how creativity can amplify the voices and experiences of victim-survivors. Each year, survivors of modern slavery take part in workshops with professional artists, culminating in a public exhibition that showcases their work.

This year’s theme, Seen and Heard, was chosen by survivor-artists. Curated by a panel of survivors and the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, the exhibition highlights both the ongoing reality of modern slavery and the strength and creativity of those who have experienced it.

One survivor-artist commented:

“Art is Freedom reminds us that true expression is freedom itself, freedom of the mind, the heart, and the spirit.”

Another survivor-artist added:

“Art is a powerful tool that can be used to shine light on some of humanity’s darkest experiences. I believe that we can all work together to ensure the lives of those who have been affected by modern day slavery and human trafficking are seen and heard.”

The evening also featured a speech from Julie Etchingham (ITV News), who spoke about the importance of storytelling and visibility of survivors in improving public understanding of modern slavery. 

“This exhibition is a reminder of the power a picture can bring when words fail”.

“Silencing was the greatest weapon of their abusers. It’s why looking at these pictures is so incredibly moving – they are a vivid un-silencing”

Patrick Ryan, Hestia’s Chief Executive, highlighted the need to keep building on the commitment of all those dedicated to ending modern slavery. Patrick said:

“At Hestia, we're proud to support survivors of modern slavery as they rebuild their lives - finding safety, hope and purpose. Art is Freedom is just one of the many ways we empower survivors to share their voices and creativity, while raising awareness of modern slavery within our communities.

“We hope that people who see Art is Freedom 2025, from Trafalgar Square to London Bridge, will be moved not only emotionally, but to action. As Baroness May said, we all have a role to play if we are to eradicate modern slavery: individuals, businesses, and policymakers”.

Where to see Hestia’s Art is Freedom

Art is Freedom can be seen across key central London locations throughout October:

• Aldgate Square | 6–13 October
• Lyric Square | 6–13 October
• London Bridge Station | 6–20 October
• Trafalgar Square | 13–27 October
• New Change Gardens | 13–27 October

Thanks to our partners

Art is Freedom is only possible thanks to the support of our partners. These include this year’s private event hosts, Arcadis; headline partners of Art is Freedom 2025, Ashurst and We Soda; and this year’s exhibition hosts, Westminster City Council, Network Rail, Hammersmith and Fulham Council, Aldgate Connect BID and Cheapside BID.

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