EVENT: The Art of Taking Up Space – celebrating creativity, mental wellbeing and 10 years of U-evolve
This autumn, we’re incredibly proud to be launching The Art of Taking Up Space, a free, three-day youth art exhibition exploring the power of creativity in supporting mental health and wellbeing.
The exhibition runs from Tuesday 30th September to Thursday 2nd October 2025 at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Leith and marks a special milestone for us: 10 years of U-evolve.
Created by young people, for young people
Over the past eight weeks, young people from across Edinburgh have been working alongside our resident Art Therapist, local artists and art students to co-create this inspiring showcase. Together, they’ve explored experiences of mental health, trauma, resilience and hope, using art as a way to heal, connect and make sense of the world.
Alison Wright, our Art Psychotherapist & Development Worker, said:
“I’m so proud of the young people who’ve taken part in our art therapy workshops. Art has given them a way to express feelings they can’t always put into words, and it has opened up space for conversations in a safe, informal way. The work going on display is honest and from the heart and shows how creative support groups, along with plenty of snacks, can support healing and better mental health!”
What you’ll find at the exhibition
Visitors can explore a series of interactive and engaging spaces, including:
Launch Night – you’re invited!
We’re celebrating the first day of opening with a special Launch Night on Tuesday 30th September, 5pm to 8pm. It’s free to attend (booking essential), and will include drinks, nibbles, a raffle, plus the chance to meet some of the young people behind the artwork, alongside our team and community partners.
Book your free ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1631324247739?aff=oddtdtcreator
A decade of creating safe spaces
Since we opened our doors in 2015, U-evolve has supported over 200 young people every year with free coaching, counselling and therapeutic services, delivering more than 1,000 hours of support annually. Based in Leith, we work extensively across North and South East Edinburgh, supporting 11 to 21 year-olds, many of whom face significant challenges linked to poverty, inequality and trauma.
Our CEO, Susie McIntyre, reflects on what this exhibition means:
“Our 2025–28 strategy is all about creating space for young people and places where they feel safe, heard and empowered. The Art of Taking Up Space will highlight just how vital these spaces and services are for healing, wellbeing, and engaging young people in therapies that resonate. We can’t wait to welcome visitors from across the city to the exhibition and to share these pieces from our amazing young people.”
Thank you to our partners
The exhibition is part of The Big Ten, our anniversary project funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, and is kindly supported by our silver sponsors, Cameron Optometry. We’re also working in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, The Ripple, LGBT Youth Scotland, Circle and Craigroyston Community High School who are helping us deliver pop-up art workshops, opening up even more safe spaces for young people across the city.
Event details at a glance
Exhibition: Tues 30 Sept – Thurs 2 Oct, 10am–5pm
Launch Night: Tues 30 Sept, 5–8pm (booking essential) (link to Eventbrite page)
Venue: Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 8RG
Cost: Free
