From Vision to Reality: A Joyful Celebration of the Young Creatives Art Exhibition
- Marx James
- Aug 6, 2025
- 3 min read
There are moments in life that remind us of the simple beauty of bringing people together through creativity and Sunday’s Young Creatives Art Exhibition at Burston Garden Centre was exactly that.
Born from a dream to give young people the space and encouragement to be seen, heard, and celebrated, the exhibition marked the first ever Imaginative Reaction showcase for artists aged 4–16. And what a day it was.
A Day to Remember
From the moment the doors opened at 12pm, the venue was alive with energy. Walls were packed with vibrant and creative artworks submitted by over 20 young artists. Each piece telling its own story, filled with imagination, colour, and meaning.
Families, friends, and visitors wandered through the exhibition, many of them pausing in awe at the incredible talent on display. Some stood quietly in front of particular pieces, moved by what had been created. Others shared wide smiles and warm conversations, celebrating the artists' efforts and letting them know that their voices matter.
More Than Just Art on the Walls
The exhibition was a celebration of community and creativity in action. The day featured beautiful live music performances from BoThai, filling the air with soulful piano and acoustic sounds. Zed Kay offered stunning henna art to guests, while Adrian Wildsmith & Carolyn Storey ran a creative workstations full of engaging activities that had both kids and adults getting involved.
One of the most touching moments came during the closing hour when we gathered together to share words of thanks and appreciation. We handed out gifts to every each young artist, acknowledging their bravery, their talent, and their willingness to create something and share it with the world.
Creating Space for Expression and Connection
Events like this are about showing young people that their creativity is important. They’re about giving families the chance to bond through shared experiences and they’re about proving that art, in its purest, most honest form - has the power to build bridges, foster confidence, and strengthen community.
The joy and pride in the eyes of the young artists as they saw their work displayed was priceless. For many of them, this was the first time their work had ever been exhibited, and the feeling of being seen and celebrated will leave a lasting impact.
An Ongoing Journey Rooted in Legacy
What made the day even more special is the story behind it.
This exhibition, and everything Imaginative Reaction has become, all began from a very personal place. It was inspired by my journey curating the hidden body of work created by Nick Fraser, a remarkable outsider artist and lifelong friend of my father. After Nick passed away, my father and I made it our mission to bring his paintings and legacy to light.
In doing so, I discovered how curation, creativity, and community could come together to form something powerful. I also realised that we could build something for others, not just to remember Nick, but to create new opportunities for artists of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences.
And so, Imaginative Reaction was born, not only as a platform to preserve legacy, but as one to ignite new ones.
The Future Begins Here
As we close the chapter on our first Young Creatives Art Exhibition, our hearts are full and our eyes are already looking forward. The Imaginative Reaction Online Gallery is now live, showcasing the entire exhibition in digital form for the world to see click here to view. And we’ve already begun preparing for our next exhibition — this time for artists aged 16+ and adults. (If that sounds like you, register your interest here).
To all who supported the day, whether by submitting work, volunteering time, performing, or simply attending.. thank you. You helped us create something truly special. And to every young artist who took part: your voice matters, your art matters, and we can’t wait to see what you create next.
With love and gratitude,
Marcus
Founder,
Imaginative Reaction
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