Posted: September 18, 2026
A major art exhibition showcasing art in recovery is now on display at Wolverhampton Arts Centre as part of Recovery Month.
The Recovery is For Everyone exhibition showcases artwork from Wolverhampton-based charity Good Shepherd’s Recovery Art Group and was developed through a series of Arts Council England-funded workshops and mentoring sessions led by local artists.
Throughout the year, Good Shepherd has supported people recovering from addiction, mental health challenges and homelessness to explore their creativity.
The exhibition launched on Friday 11 September, attracting around 150 people to an evening celebrating the talent and creativity of artists in recovery. The exhibition will remain open to the public until Thursday 24 September 2026, subject to Wolverhampton Arts Centre opening times.
Visitors to the launch were among the first to view a diverse collection of artwork exploring different mediums developed through a diverse programme of artist-led sessions. The evening also featured a series of prestigious awards presented in partnership with the Wolverhampton Society of Artists (WSA), who independently judged the artwork on display.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Chris Manley Legacy Award, established in honour of the late Chris Manley, whose commitment to creativity and recovery continues to inspire artists across the city.
Artist and printmaker Jacky Fellows said:
“Back in 2018, Chris Manley and I walked into the Good Shepherd art group at Base 25 with no idea how deeply those early sessions would ripple outward. What began as a simple visit grew into a lasting creative partnership: Chris went on to become one of the voluntary creative leads at the Good Shepherd, later joining forces with Paul Owen to open Studio G5 at Wolverhampton Arts Centre.
“Today, that studio hosts weekly art sessions; an open, warm, quietly determined community shaped in no small part by Chris’ belief that creativity belongs to everyone.
“It feels fitting, then, that the WSA has approved the Chris Manley Legacy Award. One recovery artist will be selected for free membership of the WSA and automatic entry into our June 2027 exhibition at the Rose Paterson Gallery, Weston Park. It’s a celebration not only of Chris’ contribution, but of the community he helped nurture; one that continues to grow, create and inspire all of us.”
This year’s Chris Manley Legacy Award for Artistic Excellence in the Recovery is For Everyone exhibition was presented to Good Shepherd artist in recovery, Alan McKee:
” The course has really helped lift my spirits and get some enthusiasm back for being creative which in turn helps with depression and anxiety helping me remain positive and happy to engage with the world at large whilst working alongside others who are inspiring with their continued lust for life even during extreme difficulties.
“I’m pleased to be associated with the award as it was in Chris Manley’s name and pleasantly surprised to be acknowledged by other more accomplished artists.”
The launch event also recognised the legacy of Sally Rowley, a much-loved member of the recovery art group who sadly passed away from cancer last year. In partnership with Studio G5 at Wolverhampton Arts Centre, Sal’s Prize was awarded to group members in recognition of their engagement, attendance and artistic development, celebrating Sally’s lasting impact on the creative recovery community.
The exhibition forms part of a wider programme of events taking place throughout Recovery Month. The celebrations will continue on Friday 25 September with Friday Lates at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, taking place from 6pm to 9pm.
The free event will feature live music, family-friendly creative workshops led by Jane Plowright and BagLord and spoken word performances led by poet and author Emma Purshouse.
As part of Sustainable Fashion Week, Reinvntd will also host a panel discussion titled Rethinking Consumption: A Conversation Inspired by Art & Fashion, encouraging conversations around sustainability, creativity and community.
Both the Recovery is for Everyone exhibition and Friday Lates event are free and open to everyone.
Tickets for Friday Lates can be booked via Event Booking Link.
The project is supported using public funding from Arts Council England.
