Ten Years of Bethlem Gallery in this Building

Bethlem artist Xavier White chats to Nerea, an MSc Student from King’s College London, during her placement with the gallery, to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the gallery moving into its current space. Last month marked ten years since Bethlem Gallery opened its doors in its current space, the specially renovated Hospital Admin building. This milestone provides us with the chance to reflect on how the gallery has grown and the role it continues to play in the wider artistic community. Over the past decade, it has developed into more than just an exhibition space: it’s become a place for creative expression, collaboration, and connection. 

Artist Xavier White has been working with the gallery since it opened its doors at its current location. As one of the artists who has seen the gallery grow over the last decade, Xavier offered unique insights into its evolution and its role in supporting both artistic practice and mental well-being. 

“When the gallery first opened, it felt much more like a white space,” Xavier shared. “Now it’s far more interactive. As well as exhibiting art, it is a more engaging place for everyone.” 

Xavier’s perspective highlights how the gallery has grown into a hub for creativity and companionship. With regular and community led creative writing and art workshops, it has expanded beyond just a traditional exhibition space. “It’s good for people who enjoy company. Artists spend a lot of time alone, so it’s nice for them to be able to interact with each other,” he added. 

Bethlem Gallery offers an inspiring sanctuary—one where creative expression is encouraged, and artists are free to explore their ideas without constraint. As Xavier shared, it’s clear how important this space is for those seeking both artistic freedom and a sense of connection. It’s a place where creativity is not only celebrated, but also restorative. 

“Art contributes to my mental well-being. It gives me something to focus on, something to progress to,” Xavier said. “It’s about assembling stuff and creating, rather than spiralling within yourselves.” His words capture the essence of why spaces like Bethlem [Gallery] matter—not just for the art, but for what art enables. 

Over the years, the gallery has welcomed a wide range of exhibitions, from larger-scale installations to more intimate solo shows. It has collaborated with institutions and invited the public to engage in workshops, talks, and performances, each contributing to a growing dialogue about the role of creativity in everyday life. 

Over the past ten years, Bethlem Gallery has steadily grown as a space for creativity, connection, and thoughtful engagement. Looking ahead, the gallery shows no sign of slowing down. With exciting upcoming exhibitions planned, and plenty of new artists to work with, the next ten years look just as promising. Through Xavier’s reflections on the gallery’s journey, we see a space not only dedicated to cultivating creative practice but also one that has made a lasting difference to those who engage with it.  

For those who stumble upon Bethlem Gallery, its charm is instantly apparent. And once you step inside, leaving becomes the hardest part. 

Written by Nerea Rodero Dominguez.