Hastings Museum re-opens this month with exciting new exhibitions programme

They will also have a new programme of contemporary exhibitions to see, which will showcase painting, sculpture, photography, film, mechanical sculptures and model making. The museum team have been busy refreshing the permanent displays, so there will be lots more for visitors to enjoy.

The first of these new exhibition’s is ‘Hastings Open 2020’ which begins when the museum reopens and will continue until 3 January 2021. This is the museum’s first open call exhibition, featuring both local and international artists. The open call saw over 1,500 artworks submitted for consideration, with the final pieces chosen by a guest panel of practising artists and gallery owners.

The exhibition to follow this will be ‘My Vital Life – Laetitia Yhap at 80’ (23 January – 9 May 2021) a celebration of the life and work of Laetitia Yhap, a Hastings resident and acclaimed British 20th century painter, co-curated in partnership with ExploretheArch.

In May 2021 the museum will also bring you ‘Ingenious Contraptions’ which will include mechanical sculptures from Cabaret Mechanical Theatre’s collection and contraptions from the museum’s store, all made possible by the generous support of Anthony Horowitz and Sarah Alexander. This exhibition was originally planned for this summer, however it had to be delayed due to COVID-19.

Councillor Colin Fitzgerald, lead cabinet member for Regeneration, Culture and Tourism said: “Hastings Museum and Art Gallery’s 2020-21 exhibitions will highlight some of the best work from local artists and makers.

“Alongside astounding national and international pieces which will be on display too. The museum’s new exhibition programme will offer an inspiring day out for children and adults to enjoy.

“If you would like to visit to museum and enjoy the excellent exhibitions they have to offer over the coming months, please go to their website www.hmag.org.uk, where you will find full details on opening hours, the COVID secure measures they have in place and how to book your free timed tickets in advance.”