Exhibition of art from people from across the PO district who have visually responded to their neighbourhood on display at the Portsmouth South MP’s constituency office.

How would you draw, paint or photograph your local neighbourhood? Aspex Gallery and Southsea Lifestyle asked people living within the PO area to visually respond to what they love or loathe about their local area.

Hundreds of residents, of all ages and abilities have submitted postcard-sized artworks, culminating in their exhibition at Aspex Gallery in Gunwharf Quays and now at the offices of Stephen Morgan MP on Albert Road, Southsea.

Joanne Bushnell, Director of Aspex said:

“We are thrilled that this partnership has given Aspex the opportunity to showcase the creative contributions of local residents of all ages. The artworks are stunning and provided our visitors with an extremely entertaining exhibition”.

Since relocating to the waterfront at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth in 2006, the Aspex gallery has focused on finding ways to meaningfully engage its visitors by facilitating connections with artists and revealing the creative process.

A participation programme provides activities for toddlers through to pensioners, and its work with children on the autistic spectrum and with Special Educational Needs has been described as exemplary.

Stephen Morgan MP said:

“I am a huge fan of Aspex and its contribution to the life of our great city, so it is a real pleasure to display the Postcards From My Neighbourhood in my constituency office to give people another chance to see the talent we have here in Portsmouth.

This outreach and partnership to increase access and participation in arts and culture is exactly what I want to see more of. I thank Jo and her team for making this fun and engaging project for the people of Portsmouth. I hope others enjoy the exhibition and can pick out a favourite image from our city!”.

Following the exhibition at Stephen Morgan MP’s office, all of the postcards will be donated to the Portsmouth City Archive, creating a visual reflection of our local area for future generations.