Celebrating Innovation at Hastings Contemporary

The fact that Hastings Contemporary, a small independent art museum situated on the historic fishing beach at Hastings, has been named one of six finalists for the European Museum Academy's Art Museum Award 2026, is a testament to its innovative and community-driven approach to art. The museum's high-quality contemporary programming, combined with its deep commitment to its coastal community and environment, has been recognised by the jury as a model for regional institutions to become influential cultural and civic presences.

The museum's director, Kathleen Soriano, has stated that the nomination comes as the museum redoubles its commitment to ocean futures and sustainability, exploring the relationship between art, coastal communities, and the changing marine environment. This commitment is reflected in the museum's exhibitions, educational projects, and socio-environmental initiatives, which demonstrate how art can be used to engage with the issues facing society today. The museum's approach to audience engagement has been described as exceptional, with the judges' statement praising its ability to turn its harshest critics into its closest collaborators.

Hastings Contemporary is an independent art museum that operates with a small team of nine full-time equivalent roles and more than 70 volunteers. The museum's building, whose design draws on the black net huts associated with the town's beach-launched fishing fleet, is a unique and striking presence on the historic fishing beach. The museum's relationship to the maritime environment is a source of creative power, and its work safeguarding local oral histories has been recognised by the judges.

On Sunday, 1 November 2026, visitors can experience the museum's innovative approach to art and community engagement at Hastings Contemporary in Hastings. Tickets are with the button beside the article. The museum's nomination for the Art Museum Award 2026 is a significant recognition of its contributions to the cultural and civic life of its community, and its commitment to using art to address the issues facing society today.

The European Museum Academy's Art Museum Award 2026 celebrates art museums across Europe that use art in innovative ways to engage with societal issues. Hastings Contemporary's nomination, along with its commendation for innovative practice, is a testament to its status as a leading regional institution. As the museum continues to explore the relationship between art, coastal communities, and the changing marine environment, its commitment to innovation and community engagement is sure to inspire and educate visitors from across the region.