13 March - 24 April 2027

Sally Firino explores how drawing can offer a way through despair and fear, providing expression, healing and hope. Creativity can be a form of medicine, helping people process emotions and find ways to cope with life's challenges, one mark, one line, one drawing and one day at a time.

As both an artist and a teacher, Sally believes in the power of art to support wellbeing and build confidence. Last year, she completed the Online Drawing Year with the Royal Drawing School, drawing regularly to find light in the darkness. While drawing and printmaking remains at the heart of her practice, exploring collage, painting, charcoal and animation has opened up new creative possibilities and inspired her teaching. A highlight of the year was being selected to demonstrate digital drawing to The King and a distinguished group of artists at St James' Palace, an experience that was both memorable and inspiring.

Reflecting on her experience, Firino says:

"This year I completed the Online Drawing Year with the Royal Drawing School, drawing most evenings. Creating makes me feel better, and the printmaking process continues to be where I feel most at home. A new love for animation and poetry has left me with a head full of ideas for myself and my students. My renewed confidence has filtered into my classroom -my students are taking more risks, and their work is more experimental and exciting."

Through Out of the Darkness, Firino celebrates art's potential to nurture hope, support recovery and encourage confidence, creativity and new ways forward.

Please note that exhibitions are shown in our Main Gallery on the first floor which is only accessible via stairs. Read more about accessibility at Fisherton Mill here.