From Haiti to London: Empowering young artists at St James’s Market Pavilion

This autumn, St James’s Market Pavilion welcomes the return of New Vision Art Gallery for its second open-air exhibition, an inspiring showcase of creativity and resilience from young artists living in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Running 24/7 from 22 September to 31 October 2025, the exhibition brings together over 100 vibrant paintings from students of New Vision Art School in Haiti and the Alsama Project in Lebanon. Each artwork tells a story of hope, imagination and the transformative power of art.

Art as a force for change

Founded by Haitian artist and teacher Lesly Pierre Paul, New Vision Art School offers free art education and materials to children in Port-au-Prince. Its partner, the Alsama Project, operates in Lebanon’s refugee camps, where 90% of students arrive illiterate but leave with the skills and confidence to pursue higher education or skilled work.

Together, they form the heart of New Vision Art Gallery, a tech-driven social enterprise using creativity to unlock opportunity. Every artwork sold directly supports these young artists: 75% of proceeds go straight to the creators, while the remainder sustains the schools and art materials, ensuring a cycle of empowerment and independence.

As Artistic Director Abbas Zahedi explains, “New Vision is a testament to the power of creativity and education… By blending art, technology and social impact, the gallery aims to reimagine the art world as a space for inclusivity and transformation.”

Discover, create, connect

Visitors are invited not only to explore the exhibition but to get involved. A series of public events will run throughout October, including:

• 11 October, 2–4pm – Soundscape Workshop with Abbas Zahedi

• 12 October, 12–4pm – Children’s Art Workshop with Ava Kalitowski and Ellie Hill

• 16 October, 7–9pm – Poetry Evening with James Massiah

Each event offers an opportunity to connect, learn and experience art’s unifying energy first-hand.

A global story in the heart of St James’s

Set within the cultural and culinary hub of St James’s Market, the exhibition is open to all, day or night. Visitors can even purchase artworks directly via QR codes displayed throughout the Pavilion, making it effortless to support young artists around the world.

After exploring the exhibition, make the most of St James’s renowned dining scene, with seasonal British flavours at Sael, authentic Indonesian dishes at Toba, or freshly baked pastries from Ole & Steen.

This exhibition isn’t just about art, it’s about connection. From Port-au-Prince to Beirut to London, it’s a celebration of creativity without borders.

New Vision Art Gallery: From Haiti to London

📍 St James’s Market Pavilion, 11 St James’s Market, London SW1Y 4SQ

🗓️ 22 September – 31 October 2025

For more information, visit newvisionartgallery.com Follow @stjameslondon for updates on upcoming events.