“In the whiteness of a paper I see your face. I am grateful, I still remember every wrinkle and mole on your pleated skin. I pick up a pen. It has been too long since we spoke”. — Natalia Millman.
Dates: 6th – 28th August 2025
Location: St Peter’s Church, St Albans, Hertfordshire
Grief is universal, yet often unspoken. “Letters to Forever”, a three-week immersive art exhibition, turning over 200 deeply personal letters into visual art installation, sound, scent, video pieces, and performance. Developed and led by the artist Natalia Millman, this project is a profound exploration of loss, love, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Supported by Arts Council England and presented in partnership with Cruse Bereavement Support and Carers in Hertfordshire, “Letters to Forever” invites you into a transformative journey of collective storytelling, healing, and creativity.
At the heart of the exhibition is the power of personal stories – letters written by individuals navigating grief – brought to life through drawing, sculpture, sound, film and performance. Alongside the installation, interactive workshops offer visitors hands-on ways to process their emotions and connect with others through creativity.
Why You Should Experience “Letters to Forever”
1. A Powerful Vision
This is not just a visual exhibition; it’s an invitation to reshape how we view grief, space to reflect, meditate and be curious. By merging art and community, the project redefines loss as an experience of connection and growth.
2. An Immersive Installation
Featuring over 200 personal letters transformed into visceral drawings and sound pieces, the exhibition showcases everything from meditative soundscapes to sensory sculptures and live events that will leave audiences moved and inspired.
3. A Safe Space for Vulnerability
Held in the historic St Peter’s Church, a place of reflection and solace, the exhibition provides a non-judgmental environment for visitors to explore grief and healing – whether you’ve experienced loss or are curious about its impact.
4. Workshops that Heal and Connect
Five interactive workshops will empower participants to express their emotions and learn tools for resilient healing. Activities will include: mindful clay, yoga for grief, grief circle with breathwork, journaling and art. Some workshops will be focused on the Ukrainian community and companions of people living with dementia: the sessions reflect a commitment to inclusivity and care. To enquire, how to participate in the events and workshops, please contact the artist.
5. A Call to Empathy
By amplifying the stories of grief, “Letters to Forever” cultivates a profound sense of communal understanding while breaking down the stigma surrounding loss.
Hear From the Artist
“Grief is a journey we all face, yet it’s so often met with silence. ‘Letters to Forever’ began with my own story – losing my dad – and grew into a container holding the stories of others. Each letter is a testament to the strength and vulnerability of the human spirit. My hope is that this exhibition transforms pain into something that connects, heals, and inspires us all.”
– Natalia Millman
What The Arts Council England is Saying
Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director at Arts Council England, describes the project:
“Letters to Forever’ is a remarkable demonstration of how art can touch our most profound emotions, creating empathy and connection. This project isn’t just about grief; it’s about the beauty of the human experience.”
Key Event Dates
Public Launch – 7th August 2025
Join the artist in conversation with Cruse Bereavement Support.Interactive Workshops – 16th-26th August
Hands-on sessions exploring mindful clay, yoga for grief, breathwork, journaling, art.Live Performance – 28th August
A collaboration with artist Casey Francis, blending sound, video, and live readings.
Exhibition Opening Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
For media inquiries, interviews, and features, please contact the artist.
Volunteering positions are available for invigilation and events. Express your interest here.
Read the artist’s blog post “Sharing Stories: Healing Hearts” featured by REIMAGINE about the benefits of writing a Grief Letter and how to start on this journey.
“I’ve found you on Instagram! It looks to be a wonderful project with lots of scope for a great community exhibition”
“The letter is really helping and becoming a milestone on the grief journey I think ...”
“I 'd love to participate in your project. I recently lost my dad, who was my go-to person, and I think projects like yours truly help the healing / accepting process”
—- Grief Letter participants