The Open: Odyssey at Hastings Contemporary Is the South Coast’s Answer to the Summer Exhibition

Key Takeaways

• Over 2,500 Sussex artists submitted works.
• 150 pieces selected for the exhibition.
• Theme “Odyssey” unites diverse sea‑inspired art.
• 70% of sales proceeds go directly to artists.
• Potential to become yearly South Coast art event.

Pulse Analysis

The Open: Odyssey marks a shift toward open‑submission models that democratize exhibition space, echoing the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition but with a distinctly regional flavor. By inviting thousands of entries and curating a modest 150, Hastings Contemporary creates a low‑barrier entry point for emerging creators while still delivering a curated experience for visitors. This approach not only broadens the talent pool but also signals to other institutions that inclusive programming can coexist with commercial viability.

The exhibition’s maritime theme taps into Sussex’s coastal identity, inspiring works that range from Jim Naughten’s manipulated cephalopod photograph to Kevin J.J. Warren’s sculpture built from fishing‑industry waste. Artists repurpose found materials, echoing broader sustainability trends in contemporary art, while pieces like Louisa Whitham’s cyanotype on a pizza box blend humor with local relevance. The diversity of media—painting, sculpture, cyanotype, and mixed‑media installations—offers a comprehensive snapshot of current artistic practices in the region.

Economically, directing 70% of proceeds to artists transforms the show into a vital revenue stream for creators facing market headwinds. The model encourages collectors to purchase directly, fostering a more transparent art economy. Moreover, the event’s potential to become an annual fixture promises to boost cultural tourism, drawing visitors to Hastings for art, food, and the seaside experience. As the exhibition gains traction, it could stimulate ancillary spending, support local businesses, and reinforce the South Coast’s reputation as a vibrant arts hub.