Life through a soldier’s eyes: Army artist's exhibition in aid of SSAFA

01 October 2026

A military artist is bringing together a collection of paintings inspired by service life for a special one-day charity art exhibition in Abingdon, with proceeds being donated to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Taking place on 6 October 2026 at the Unit Welfare Hall, 4 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, the exhibition will showcase original oil paintings and watercolours by Army artist Lance Corporal Michael Annor, whose work draws on his passion for military life and the stories that come with service.

The event aims to inspire and nurture creativity within the regiment, help reduce the stigma and myths surrounding mental health, and raise funds to support SSAFA's work with the Armed Forces community.
Lance Corporal Annor has been painting for almost 20 years, with oil on canvas his preferred medium. His work combines a strong understanding of the physical world with imaginative and realistic elements, creating paintings designed to take viewers beyond the ordinary.

For Annor, art is also a way of connecting people.

Lance Corporal Annor said: “Art, for me, is a universal language that transcends boundaries, communicates deep emotions and connects us all to one another. By sharing my work, I aim to promote creativity, strengthen esprit de corps, and engage and inspire people about military life.

"Another important part of my art is supporting health and wellbeing initiatives within the Armed Forces community by raising funds through art for military charities. It is my way of giving something back to the community that has shaped my life.”

SSAFA Oxfordshire, Branch Chair, Ian Talbot says: “Michael hopes the exhibition will encourage people to engage with art while opening conversations around creativity, wellbeing and the experiences of military life. We are incredibly grateful to him for using his passion and talent to support SSAFA and the Armed Forces community. By bringing people together through his artwork and raising vital funds and awareness, he is helping us to reach more people who may need our support.

“Every donation and every conversation about SSAFA helps us to ensure that serving personnel, veterans and their families know that support is there when they need it. Thanks to the generosity of people like Michael, we can continue our work so that no one in our Armed Forces community has to battle alone.”

Visitors to the exhibition will be able to view and purchase a selection of Annor's military-themed artwork, with proceeds donated to SSAFA through his fundraising page.

The event will also provide an opportunity for members of the Armed Forces community to learn more about the support available through SSAFA, including its work supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families with practical, emotional and financial support.