Written Here returns to the Long Gallery
Nearly 50 pieces of writing from local people and students come together in a community exhibition exploring everyday life in Luton. On display until 6 December 2026.
Written Here, our community writing exhibition originally presented as part of Heritage Open Days 2026, has returned to the Long Gallery at Hat Factory Arts Centre.
The exhibition brings together close to 50 short pieces of writing about Luton, featuring contributions from adult community members, students at Barnfield College and pupils at St Matthew's Primary School.
The open call invited people to share something they knew, remembered, had heard or learned about Luton, in 30 words or fewer. The result is a collection of personal memories, observations, stories and fragments of local knowledge, offering different perspectives on the town and the experiences that shape it.
A collection of local voices
One of the pleasures of bringing Written Here together has been seeing contributions from different generations and backgrounds presented alongside one another. From primary school pupils to college students and adult contributors, the exhibition demonstrates how everyone has something to contribute to the way a place is understood and remembered.
We would like to thank everyone who submitted their writing, as well as Barnfield College and St Matthew's Primary School for helping their students take part.
Visit the exhibition
Following its initial presentation during Heritage Open Days, Written Here has returned to the Long Gallery and will remain on display until 6 December 2026.
We welcome schools and other groups interested in visiting the exhibition. Curator-led gallery visits are available by arrangement, offering an opportunity to explore the contributions and discuss themes of local history, memory, writing and place.
We are also planning a closing get-together with contributors towards the end of November or in the first week of December. Further details will be announced shortly.
Written Here
Long Gallery, Hat Factory Arts Centre, Luton
On display until 6 December 2026.
