Short Description
Hastings Borough Council and East Sussex County Council are working in partnership to commission an artwork as part of the Hastings Town Centre Public Realm and Green Connections Project — one of seven initiatives funded by the Towns Fund. The project is part of a long-term vision to revitalise Hastings Town Centre through green infrastructure and placemaking.
This project recognises the streets and public spaces of Hastings as more than just routes for movement – they are places where community life unfolds. The goal is to create spaces where people want to spend time – supporting social connection, cultural activity, and wellbeing – while integrating nature in ways that benefit both residents and local wildlife.
The commissioned artwork should play a meaningful role in the regeneration of Hastings Town Centre. It will support placemaking efforts, integrate seamlessly into the wider public realm enhancements, and contribute to the overall design vision, rather than functioning as a stand-alone piece. The artwork should help echo the distinct identity and heritage of the area, while also making the town centre a more engaging and enjoyable place to spend time.
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to:
- Individual artists or artist collectives who can provide evidence of previous relevant experience creating art in the public realm – (artist collectives must provide evidence of working together previously)
- Artists from any discipline or background who can meet the brief creatively and professionally.
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Experience in delivering robust public artwork.
- Practical experience of the technical and practical considerations of creating artwork for outdoor public spaces.
Submission Requirements
- A cover letter expressing your interest and outlining your initial ideas and approach to the artwork (500 words max)
- A current CV (max. 2 pages per applicant)
- A document of up to 6 images of relevant past work with short descriptions.
- A statement explaining how your artistic background, skills, and previous experience align with its vision and objectives (max. 300 words)
- A statement outlining your experience of managing previous similar projects specifically budgets, materials, methods and multiple stakeholders (max. 300 words)
- If you are applying as an artist collective, please provide evidence of working together previously (max 300 words)
How to Apply
Please email your Expression of Interest submission to museum@hastings.gov.uk and include ‘Hastings Town Centre Public Art Commission EOI’ in the subject line.
Program Benefits & Awards
The total available budget for the commission is £90,000 which must cover all costs, including design and making fees (including method testing or samples), travel expenses, installation costs, licenses, materials and a risk assessment and method statement for the installation. A payment schedule will be agreed with the appointed artist(s).
This is a freelance commission – you must be registered as self-employed, and will be responsible for your own tax and National Insurance and be able to provide evidence of current public liability insurance minimum £10 million.
Entry Fee
None
Location
East Sussex, UK
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 8 June 2025
Website Link: https://www.hmag.org.uk/see-and-do/projects/public-art-commission-hastings-town-centre-public-realm-and-green-connections-project/
