Life in Full Colour: The Art of Jason Wilsher-Mills

Life in Full Colour: The Art of Jason Wilsher-Mills runs from 10 July 2026 to 3 January 2027. It invites visitors into a vivid, fantastical world filled with mermaids, larger-than-life characters, and unexpected creatures, including fish with feet.

Bringing together monumental sculptures, inflatables, bespoke wallpaper and digital artworks, the exhibition showcases Wilsher‑Mills’ unmistakable visual style, playful, powerful and packed with personality.

Jason’s work is deeply personal. After a life‑changing illness in childhood left him paralysed for a year, he learned to paint using a brush held in his mouth – a defining moment that continues to shape his creative practice today.

Alongside newly commissioned works inspired by Poole’s maritime heritage and the museum’s collections, the exhibition also brings together pieces spanning Jason’s wider career, including artworks created in collaboration with disabled communities across the UK. In recognition of his contribution to art and disability, Jason was awarded an MBE in 2025 for Services to Art and Disability.

Visitors to the museum will be welcomed by a striking installation in the atrium that sets the tone for this immersive, multi‑sensory experience in The Fine Gallery on Level 4. With colourful characters, fantastical creatures and interactive elements throughout, the exhibition has been designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, making it an exciting experience for families to enjoy together.

Accessibility is central to the exhibition, reflecting the artist’s lived experience. As a result, the free exhibition is accompanied with large print and easy read guides, audio interpretation and a dedicated wellbeing space to ensure the exhibition can be enjoyed by a wide range of visitors.