Hastings Contemporary

I visited the Undersea exhibition and was impressed with the quality and variety of the works. The staff were knowledgeable and friendly. The restaurant, coquina, upstairs served a superb lunch and has great views from the balcony.

This museum is located by the coast, among fishing boats and apparel, a black box of sharp edges containing two levels of art spaces, a small patio, and a café. At the time of the visit they had two suitably nautical themed exhibitions, 'The sun feeds the wind' and 'Undersea'. The former is a set of huge pieces and an expansive map of the area in one wall that showcases the local knowledge of fishermen and their experiences, the latter is a collection of paintings, prints, and engravings from different cultures and their approach to the sea. It's a small and lovely place that is well engaged with by the community, with spaces for activities and workshops for children. If only there were more places like this around the country! Can't miss it if you are in Hastings.

Nice building, decent cafe/ restaurant with views overlooking the Fishing area (the Stade) The art exhibits are not quite my cup of tea, although I appreciate the thought and work that has gone into their creation. Good to see that local schools have been involved and have work on display.

Visited Undersea exhibition. Nice curation and lovely venue. Haven't tried the new cafe but its view was stunning.

My first visit to Hastings Contemporary! This is a wonderful gallery space that, design wise, has been well thought through. Windows and skylights are carefully positioned to let the natural light and the beauty of the buildings sea shore setting, come through. I enjoyed both the exhibitions I saw, particularly '100 Portraits" by Sir Quentin Blake, the Grand Old Man of British illustration. The facilities here are good. There is a nice cafe (upstairs) a gallery shop (in the entrance hall), clean washrooms for those who need them and, best of all, helpful and welcoming staff.