A powerful new exhibition celebrating the voices, cultures, and lived experiences of Wolverhampton’s diverse communities will open to the public this May at the Mander Centre Community Hub.
And it is supported by Wolverhampton solicitors, Riley Hayes & Co Solicitors and Arts Council England and is completely free
Recipes of Resilience, an Arts Council England funded project led by Sri Lankan-born human rights and women’s rights advocate Damayanthi Muthukumaranage, brings together months of grassroots creative work shaped by people across the city. The exhibition will run from 8th to 10th May and is free for the public to attend. The exhibition reflects the true spirit of Wolverhampton.
The project has been developed in partnership with City of Sanctuary Wolverhampton, the University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton Art Gallery, and several local community groups, ensuring broad participation and meaningful engagement across the city.
Visitors can expect an immersive and emotionally engaging experience. The exhibition space has been thoughtfully designed to move beyond traditional gallery formats, incorporating installation elements such as a central dining table display of handmade clay pieces, symbolic sculptural forms, and a striking fabric installation representing the female experience. Through carefully curated lighting and spatial design, the exhibition invites audiences to step into a shared space of reflection, empathy, and connection.
Damayanthi Muthukumaranage said:
“This project was born from a simple idea — that when people sit together, share stories, and create together, something powerful happens. Wolverhampton is a city of many stories, and this exhibition is a reflection of that strength, resilience, and unity.”
The creative production and media for the project has been led by Humanity Media CIC, with filmmaker Diyodi Menon supporting the visual storytelling and documentation of the journey.
Riley Hayes & Co Solicitors are specialist criminal defence lawyers based in the Midlands, however, they represent individuals and businesses all around the country, and have been undertaking work of the highest standard for over 39 years.
"We undertake a range of high-profile matters including high-profile Murder cases, Drug Trafficking matters, People Trafficking, Serious Sexual Offences, Drug Conspiracy offences, Terrorism, POCA and complex fraud and conspiracy matters" said a spokesperson.
"We also cover all aspects of motoring offences ranging from speeding right the way up to drink driving and failing to provide breath specimen.
We offer a free 24-hour professional legal advice at Police Stations which is free of charge, regardless of your means. We can attend at extremely short notice and advise you to make sure you get the best possible outcome.
We attend all local and national courts and provide you with expert legal advice throughout, and up until the conclusion of your case. If you are required to attend the Police Station, Magistrates Court or Crown Court - make sure you call us first to ensure that you have expert support and assistance up until conclusion of your case. We offer Legal Aid and Fixed Fee arrangements when required."
The exhibition is open from 10am to 5pm on 8th, 9th, and 10th May at the Mander Centre Community Hub in Wolverhampton. Entry is free, and all are welcome.
