Explores the realm of marine life through two fresh displays at Hastings Contemporary.
Hastings Contemporary is set to host two captivating exhibitions this spring, with the "Undersea" exhibition opening its doors on March 29th, 2025, and running until September 13th, 2025. The second exhibition, "The Sun Feeds the Wind," is scheduled to follow, but further details are yet to be revealed.
The "Undersea" exhibition promises to be a mesmerising journey into the depths of the ocean, showcasing a diverse collection of works spanning four centuries and multiple cultures. The exhibition, curated by art historian James Russell, presents a rich tapestry of paintings, prints, drawings, and objects that highlight the sea as a shared cultural space and a source of endless wonder.
Among the artists featured in the exhibition are Edward Wadsworth, Michael Armitage, and Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Historical pieces, such as Charles Collins' "Lobster on a Delft Dish" (1738), will also be on display, offering a glimpse into the past and the enduring allure of the ocean.
While the "Undersea" exhibition does not directly address the local fishing community, it may have an indirect impact by raising awareness about the importance of marine life and the cultural significance of the sea. This could potentially inspire local dialogue about conservation and sustainability in fishing practices.
Hastings, with its long history of fishing, boasts a fishing fleet of 25 boats due to a changing climate and an ageing workforce. The beach, known as the Stade, has been used for boat launches for over 1,000 years. Exhibitions like "Undersea" might foster a sense of pride in marine heritage while promoting environmental awareness.
As for "The Sun Feeds the Wind" exhibition, more details are to be announced. However, it is known that Annunciata Elwes, director of contemporary art gallery TIN MAN ART and an award-winning journalist, is responsible for curating this exhibition. Ms. Elwes, who currently resides in Hampshire with a husband, two daughters, and a mischievous pug, previously worked as News & Property Editor for a platform and co-founded a literary, art, and music festival in Oxfordshire.
Stay tuned for more updates on "The Sun Feeds the Wind" exhibition and the continued celebration of marine life and culture at Hastings Contemporary.
The "Undersea" exhibition, while not directly addressing the local fishing community, may stimulate discussions about marine life conservation and sustainable fishing practices within Hastings, influenced by its rich display of ocean-themed artworks. It's also worth noting that Annunciata Elwes, the curator for the upcoming "The Sun Feeds the Wind" exhibition, has shown passion for environmental and cultural topics through her work in contemporary art and journalism, both in the home setting and public platforms.
