Families, teachers and healthcare professionals gathered at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness for a special event celebrating the creativity of children with learning disabilities from across the Highlands.
The event formed part of the exhibition “This Is Me”, organised by NHS Highland’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service Learning Disabilities team.
The exhibition ran at Eden Court from 25 January until 26 February 2026 and showcased artwork created by young people while exploring themes of identity, belonging and personal expression.
Organisers said the exhibition was designed not only to display artwork but to create a welcoming space where children, families and professionals could come together to celebrate creativity and community.
One section of the exhibition focused on the creative journeys shared between children and CAMHS art therapists.
Alongside the finished artwork, the display explored the relationships and trust involved in the creative process, highlighting how the act of making art together can be just as meaningful as the final piece.
Amelia Williamson, an Integrative Psychotherapist involved in the project, said events like this remain rare for children with learning disabilities and their families.
“Events designed specifically for children with learning disabilities and their families remain rare, particularly within fine art spaces.
“The afternoon held laughter, play, and creative exploration alongside a quieter willingness to make space for the more complex realities of disability to come into view.”
Artwork from local schools also featured as part of the exhibition.
One special school contributed class artwork built around the theme of belonging, while another school presented collaborative montages reflecting the everyday interests and experiences of pupils.
Williamson said the creative displays helped highlight shared interests and connections between young people.
“The flexible event spaces at Eden Court allowed the environment to be shaped thoughtfully, with particular attention given to opportunities for expression beyond speech.
“Inclusion extended beyond accessibility alone.
“Siblings, parents, carers, and extended family members were intentionally welcomed into the experience, recognised as part of the relational world surrounding each young person.”
The event included a range of activities designed to encourage participation.
Visitors were invited to add hopes and dreams to a “love tree”, take part in a sensory aware photo booth and contribute to a response table where people could create their own artwork using a variety of materials.
Performances were also part of the celebration, including a performance from the Special Needs Action Project choir and a flash mob presentation of the song This Is Me by Performers UK.
Families, school staff, third sector organisations and community groups attended alongside the young artists themselves.
Organisers said the exhibition offered a powerful reminder of how creativity can help bring communities together while allowing young people to express their experiences and identities.
