Living Rivers Exhibition Opens in Epsom ›

“Our rivers bring the community together and inspire people to protect them,” organisers said as the Living Rivers Exhibition officially opened at the Ebbisham Centre this week.

The community-led exhibition, organised by Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network (eeCAN), welcomed residents, partners and supporters to its launch on 22 April. The event was led by eeCAN Chair William Ward and formally opened by the Mayor and Mayoress of Epsom and Ewell, Robert and Marilyn Leach.

Visitors also heard from several contributors, including Peter, Chair of Epsom Camera Club, local artist David Ede, a Hogsmill River citizen scientist, and representatives from Emma’s Bubble Trust.

The exhibition brings together artwork from local schools, colleges, art groups and individual artists, offering a wide range of interpretations of rivers and their importance to the environment and community life.

Inspired by Robert Macfarlane’s Is A River Alive?, the collection highlights both the beauty of local waterways and the environmental challenges they face, including pollution and neglect. Organisers say the aim is to raise awareness while celebrating creativity across all age groups.

A spokesperson for eeCAN praised the contributions from across the community. “The artwork brings our rivers to life and encourages people to think about how we protect them,” they said.

The exhibition is located on the first floor of the Ebbisham Centre, just outside the library in Derby Square. Entry is free, and visitors can also take part in family-friendly activities, with refreshments available on site.

Running until 22 May 2026, the Living Rivers Exhibition invites residents to explore, reflect and engage with the future of local waterways.

Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network has also announced a Heritage Walk along the Hogsmill River, taking place on Thursday 30 April at 1:30 p.m.

A limited number of places are still available. Those interested can reserve a place by emailing: eeclimateactionnetwork@gmail.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573916432364

Webpage: https://www.eecan.org/home

Romy Sustar