Art alumni celebrate a decade of art exhibitions in shipping containers

The exhibition, TIN, marks ten years since Solent’s BA (Hons) Fine Art students first began transforming shipping containers into ambitious public-facing gallery spaces in the heart of Southampton. Presented across two containers, the anniversary show brings together alumni and recent students who took part in the project between 2016 and 2025.

Participating artists are Robin Price, Kane Applegate, Olana Light, Mandy Smith, Fred Ashleigh Thornton, Mel Ffitch-Mitchell, Beccy Webb, Megan Georgia Smith, Georgia Menear, Bethany Gives, Pixie Willow Moon, Owen T Douglass and sarah filmer.

These talented artists will present a dynamic mix of photography, painting, sculpture and drawing, with each artist responding to, or reworking, pieces originally shown during their time as second-year students.

sarah filmer, who devised the exhibition and invited the artists to take part, says,
“I am beyond proud of how our students have responded to this container challenge over the years. It is never plain sailing but always rewarding.

“As well as providing the students with a public platform to showcase their pieces, the container exhibition gives them an invaluable insight into the realities of exhibiting their work - from audience engagement to the importance of effective marketing – essential skills for any artist.”

The opening event will take place on Friday 24 April, from 6–8pm for the public and invited guests. The free exhibition will then be open on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 April, from 12–5pm, with the artists on hand to speak about the work.

A small, limited-edition brochure featuring artists’ reflections on their student experience and subsequent careers will also accompany the exhibition.

Solent University would like to thank Southampton City Council for their continued support and use of Guildhall Square, and Willbox for supplying the containers for this unique exhibition.