New exhibition celebrates the communities that make Canterbury special

A new exhibition celebrating the people, places and connections that make Canterbury district a vibrant and unique place to live, work and play opens at The Beaney in Canterbury tomorrow (Saturday 4 July).

Canterbury: Our Community is co-curated by The Beaney and the Be Connected Network, a group of individuals and organisations from across the district who work alongside the museum team to support and advocate for underrepresented communities.

The exhibition explores what makes Canterbury special through the perspectives and experiences of the people who call it home.

Visitors are invited to discover artwork, objects and stories that highlight connections to the city, coastline and villages, offering a personal and thought-provoking insight into local life.

On display for the first time will be a portrait of community champion and former Lord Mayor, Cllr Keji Moses, created by artist Oliver Enwonwu. It recognises her significant contribution to the community and will later move to a permanent home in The People & Places gallery.

Other contributors to the exhibition include Sensing Culture and artist Wendy Daws, the Power of the Object group at The Beaney and Wise Words for Wellbeing Writing from Canterbury Library.

Cabinet member for culture, Cllr Charlotte Cornell, said: “Canterbury district is renowned for its strong sense of community and this new exhibition celebrates this by the bucketload.

“Quite simply we are at our best when we are pulling together and looking out for each other, and everybody knows it.

“Come along and find out all about the incredible people and projects in our district that make it the place we all cherish so much.”

Canterbury: Our Community runs until Sunday 6 September in The Front Room gallery – open daily except Mondays. Entry is free with donations welcomed.

Published: 3 July 2026