About us
Hastings Contemporary is a bold, independent arts charity in the heart of Hastings Old Town. Situated on the town’s historic fishing beach, we bring inspiring art to our coastal community through an ambitious programme of exhibitions, events and partnerships.
We welcome everybody and believe in the power of creativity to enrich lives. Our work supports new experiences, nurtures skills, preserves heritage and helps our town to thrive.
With a programme anchored in ocean futures and sustainability, we bring together artists, scientists and communities to explore new creative frontiers and the challenges of our time. As a gallery by the sea, we are reimagining what a cultural space can be – a place where art, climate and community meet.
What’s on
Team
Kathleen Soriano, Director
Leah Cross, Director of Programmes
Leah Swain, Head of Development
Rebecca Drew, Head of Finance and Operations
Agnieszka Dolata, Visitor Services and Retail Manager
Sophia McNab, Communications and Marketing Officer
Hannah Collisson, Public Programme Coordinator
Molly Barrett, Volunteer Coordinator
Louisa Sealand, Learning Coordinator
and the Front of House Team
Contact us on:
info@hastingscontemporary.org or membership@hastingscontemporary.org
01424 728377
Board of Trustees
Andrew Corbett-Nolan (Chair)
Bruce Brown
Clara Courtauld
Peter Chowney
Michael Farthing
Patricia Millett
Joni O’Sullivan
Ronke Phillips-Pakenham
David Rogers
Kay Sandford-Beal
Quentin Blake
‘I am constantly distracted by Hastings in the most enjoyable way’ Sir Quentin Blake.
We are honoured that Sir Quentin Blake is our Artist Patron.
Quentin has had a long association with Hastings and has been a high-profile supporter of Hastings Contemporary since it first opened to the public in 2012 as Jerwood Gallery.
For Quentin, his ongoing collaboration with Hastings Contemporary has opened up new possibilities, prompting him to explore new approaches and themes in the knowledge that the results will find themselves ‘sympathetically shown in this extraordinary gallery … they are truly pictures for Hastings Contemporary.’
Quentin Blake Originals
Visit our online shop to browse original paintings, drawings and limited edition prints by Quentin Blake, exclusively available at Hastings Contemporary. For all other sales enquiries, including international customers, email agnieszka@hastingscontemporary.org
Volunteering
Volunteers are a vital part of the Hastings Contemporary team. Our volunteers help to provide a welcoming environment, and support visitors of all ages to get the most out of their visit.
In return, volunteers develop new skills and experiences, and behind-the-scenes knowledge. Benefits include free entry to the gallery, volunteer socials, discounts in our shop and cafe, complimentary tickets for friends and family, and exclusive introductions to the exhibitions.
For more information contact our Volunteer Coordinator Molly Barrett at molly@hastingscontemporary.org
Learning Assistants
Support our busy programme of Family Days and school visits. Download the Information Pack and Application Form to find out more.
Gallery Stewards
Welcome visitors, answer queries and help ensure the safety of our artworks. Download the Volunteer Application Form to find out more.
“It’s a joy to volunteer at the gallery, I always feel uplifted after spending time there.”
“I enjoy learning about art and artists that I am unfamiliar with. I love being able to wander around the exhibitions before the public arrive and the icing on the cake is to meet the artists in person at the briefing sessions.”
“The whole volunteering application process was very well organised with excellent documentation setting very clear framework and engagement. Staff have been very approachable and supportive – replenishing a culture of inclusion, collaboration and appreciation of the work of volunteers.”
Jobs and opportunities
Volunteer Learning Assistants
This autumn, we are looking for volunteers to help us deliver our busy programme of school visits. See the Volunteering section above for more information.