Prism Arts, a progressive Cumbrian arts charity and inclusive studio based in Carlisle, staged a bold and joyful takeover of the city’s Tullie museum this month.
PRISM 2025 – an exploration of surface and self showcased artwork by talented learning disabled and neurodivergent artists from across Cumberland and was met with widespread public and critical acclaim.
Transforming Tullie’s newly refurbished entrance and foyer spaces, as well as the garden, lecture theatre, and City Hall Studio – PRISM 2025 invited audiences into an immersive and powerful exploration of identity and lived experience.
The exhibition featured striking large-scale paintings, digital works, delicate ceramics, intricate 3D forms, and captivating storytelling installations.
A vibrant and thought-provoking celebration of colour, joy, and creative expression, the exhibition challenged cultural perceptions of difference and spotlighted the unique voices of Prism Arts’ studio members.
It marked the latest collaboration in a long-standing partnership between Prism Arts and Tullie, following past projects such as Culture Collide (2019) and Driggsby, a Whale’s Tale (2019–21).
Anna Smalley, head of collections and engagement at Tullie, said: “This exhibition is one of the most special things we’ve done in a long time. I can’t think of another organisation better suited to be one of the first to display here at Tullie in our newly refurbished spaces.”
A celebratory private view took place on Friday July 11 in Tullie’s welcome area, with special guests including Carlisle MP Julie Minns.
Prism Arts continues to champion professional opportunities for learning disabled and neurodivergent creatives across the region.
Their work has previously been exhibited at venues including Brewery Arts in Kendal, Carlisle Cathedral, Dove Cottage in Grasmere, and Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire.
Artist Catherine Quilter said: “Someone may like it and put it on their walls, put it in a big frame, keep it forever, put it up high, and remember me who put in all that hard work.”
Though the main exhibition has now closed, selected artworks from the show remain on display in Tullie’s garden boards and can be viewed until September.
