The Friends of New Milton Station have embarked upon a programme of ‘pop up’ art exhibitions in the station waiting room. 

Each exhibition showcases the creativity of local individuals or groups across various art forms, from painting to creative writing.

The first exhibition was hosted in collaboration with the Rectory Quilters, and the second was a celebration of local literary talent. As part of the local Play on Words Festival run by Artful Scribe, the volunteer group ran their own competition, where entrants were encouraged to write a travel-themed poem in 200 words, to coincide with the national Railway 200 celebrations.

22 poems were received and seven judges, including the New Milton Mayor Alvin Reid, selected five pieces as winners, which were made into posters and unveiled as part of a special event celebrating the station’s first pop-up exhibition on 22 October.

The poems have also been published in a booklet which is available for sale on the group’s website, as well as at their upcoming Christmas fairs. The funds raised will go towards the renovation of the Station Master’s House.

Continuing the literary theme, the group are also offering passengers the opportunity to pick up a mystery book to read on their journey. Arranged in collaboration with the New Milton Sands Women’s Institute, the ‘never judge a book by its cover’ initiative is for all ages and provided for free to passengers travelling through the station.

One of the most recent pop-up exhibitions featured local artist Nathan White. On 25 November, attendees and passengers had the chance to explore the striking pieces and learn more about his story and artistic processes.

Val Sargeson, secretary of the Friends of New Milton Station, said: “We are thrilled to have put together these pop-up exhibitions. The celebratory evenings have been such a success, and we’ve received really positive feedback.

“We hope people are as excited as we are to see what creative talent we’re going to showcase next!”

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from the Friends of New Milton Station via their website.