Young people across Hampshire to showcase climate-themed artwork made from old musical instruments

The project, Climate Unity: Circular Art, will be exhibited at West Downs Art Gallery, University of Winchester, from 14 to 22 July 2026, with a preview event on 14 July from 4.30pm to 7pm. The exhibition will showcase work created by pupils using old and damaged instruments that would otherwise have been thrown away.  

Led by Hampshire County Council for a sixth year, the project invites schools to create 3D artworks by repurposing musical instruments and using recycled, salvaged or natural materials. The pieces reflect young people’s views on sustainability, waste and care for the environment.  

The work has been shaped by children and young people’s own reflections on issues including pollution, protecting natural environments, reducing waste and using resources more carefully. 

Councillor Juliet Henderson, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Education, said: “Children and young people are already thinking seriously about the environment and the kind of future they want to see. This project gives them a practical and creative way to express that. 

“It is also a good example of how schools can explore climate issues in a positive, hands-on way, while encouraging pupils to think differently about waste and the value of materials.” 

The project has brought together two County Council services: the Hampshire Improvement and Advisory Service (HIAS) and the Hampshire Music Education Hub, alongside schools and community partners. Old instruments have been given a new purpose through creative reuse, with each piece forming part of a larger shared installation.  

As well as producing artwork for public display, pupils have been exploring the idea of the circular economy – looking at how materials can be reused, repaired and reimagined instead of simply being discarded. The project also supports wider learning across the curriculum, with resources made available to schools to help them explore environmental issues through art, music and other subjects.  

The exhibition aims to show how art and music can help children and young people communicate their views on climate and the environment in a clear and imaginative way.