A powerful new ceramic installation celebrating the achievements and lived experiences of people with dyslexia is now on display at the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity in Farnham. The artwork, titled Seen the Unseen, is the culmination of a collaborative October Half Term project led by UCA Surrey Galleries, in association with Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity and ceramic specialists 318 Ceramics.

Funded by Farnham Town Council’s holiday grants scheme, the project brought together local families, students, and friends for a week of creative workshops from 28 October to 1 November 2024. Over the course of five sessions held at UCA, Helen Arkell, and 318 Ceramics, participants crafted a series of colourful clay discs, each textured with personal marks and imprinted with the names and occupations of people with dyslexia. These people ranged from famous individuals to people who attended the workshop and even their friends and family.

Some discs were intentionally left blank, representing the many individuals whose dyslexia remains undiagnosed or hidden. The final wall-hung artwork is both vibrant and thought-provoking, sparking conversations about the visibility of invisible differences.

Hazel Radnor, Head of Fundraising at Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity, said:
“This beautiful piece is not only a celebration of creativity but also a meaningful statement about recognition, inclusion, and pride in difference. We’re thrilled to host it and deeply grateful to our partners and the Farnham community.”

The installation was unveiled with a visit from the Mayor of Farnham, who joined representatives from UCA, 318 Ceramics, and the Helen Arkell team to mark the occasion.

Workshop facilitators Kathy Mason and Sian Van Driel from 318 Ceramics brought expert guidance and encouragement throughout the sessions, ensuring each piece was both meaningful and beautifully crafted.