23 July 2026

This summer, we invite you to discover our Summer Open Call Exhibition at The Gallery Cafe, where more than 50 artists present their unique interpretations of this year's theme, The Space Between. From painting and photography to mixed media and conceptual works, the exhibition celebrates a wide variety of creative voices and perspectives. Whether you are looking for inspiration, a quiet moment of reflection, or simply a chance to enjoy local art over a coffee, we would love to welcome you. The exhibition is free to visit and runs until 31 August.

Supporting emerging artists sits at the heart of what we do. We believe that providing welcoming, accessible spaces to exhibit new work helps local artists grow their practice, connect with new audiences and become part of a creative community. Every exhibition also brings fresh ideas and conversations to everyone who visits The Gallery Cafe. If you are an artist looking for a place to share your work, we would love to hear from you when future exhibition opportunities open. And if you enjoy discovering new talent, we encourage you to keep visiting our exhibitions, because your support makes a real difference to the artists we showcase and to the creative community we are building together.

Check out our What's on page and read on to find out what's coming up soon, or download a PDF version on the button below.

What's on this week

The Gallery Cafe's new Summer menu is here, and we can't wait for you to try it. Our team has created a fresh selection of delicious, seasonal, 100% plant-based dishes, all made with the same care, creativity and locally sourced ingredients that make our cafe special.

We hope to see you soon and can't wait to hear your thoughts!

Join us in the SMH Garden for an evening of poetry and performance at the Lost in the Foxglove Open Mic, as part of The Discover Festival.

This 90-minute, heart-led practice will guide you to reconnect with the living world around you through walking, breathing exercises and journaling in Victoria Park.

This workshop will teach you about the power of plants and invites you to an intuitive experience with herbs, guided by your own curiosity and instinct.

Join us for our free, monthly 'Meet Make Take' session on Wednesday 29th July, from 10am to 1pm in The Create Place. This drop-in morning arts and crafts activity gives members of our community a supportive space where they can relax, do some arts and crafts and connect with others.

Join our friends at Poplar Union for the Poplar Picnic: Festival of Britain, a free family festival celebrating Poplar's rich history and vibrant community. Expect live music, street food, arts and crafts, family activities, fairground rides and plenty more. Pack a picnic or explore the fantastic food stalls, then enjoy a brilliant day out in Bartlett Park. Everyone is welcome!

Where: Poplar Union and Bartlett Park, 2 Cotall Street, E14 6TL
When: Saturday 8th August, 11am to 5pm