British and Afghanistan Cultural Exchange Event

In August 2025, Will Lawton collaborated with Wiltshire Council to support an event at The Pound designed to strengthen connections between Afghan families living in Wiltshire and the wider local community. The programme combined presentations, music and shared food, creating a welcoming environment for cultural exchange.

The event opened with a welcome from Alan Brown, Chair of Corsham Town Council, followed by an Afghan-led presentation on life in Afghanistan. Local singer-songwriters performed between sessions, and a second Afghan presentation explored personal experience through art. The day concluded with live music from an Afghan band currently based in the UK, alongside traditional Afghan food.

Attendees heard first-hand accounts of life in Afghanistan, the journey to the UK and reflections on settling in Wiltshire. Athena Rose and her husband presented a powerful body of artwork that had been smuggled out of Afghanistan as their family fled the Taliban. Their contribution became a focal point for thoughtful discussion, and The Pound will host Athena Rose again in 2026 for a dedicated exhibition.

The audience comprised local residents, community representatives and Afghan families. Informal conversations throughout the day helped deepen understanding and strengthen relationships.

In the six months leading up to the event, Will visited Afghan families across Wiltshire to identify artists and cultural contributors. He also worked closely with presenters to help them share their experiences safely and clearly. Will was engaged for this role because a therapeutic approach was essential to supporting contributors who were addressing sensitive and potentially traumatic subjects.

“A Glimpse Of Hope” by Athena Rose
The image depicts an Afghan school girl looking at her inaccessible school. This and additional artwork will be coming to The Pound in 2026.