Hastings Borough Council, East Sussex County Council and Hastings Museum and Art Gallery have announced the appointment of Instar for the Public Art Commission as part of the Town Centre Public Realm and Green Connections project for Hastings.
The artists behind Instar, Trish Evans and Nick Humphreys, were chosen for their community-focused approach. They will work with the project team and the public to revitalise the town centre through green infrastructure and creative placemaking.
Ms Evans and Mr Humphreys said: “We are greatly excited to have been selected as commissioned artists as a part of the Hastings Green Connections project.
“On our research visits, we have found Hastings and the community to be incredibly inspiring, welcoming and creative.
“We look forward to further developing our public artwork for the town centre, engaging communities, and working collaboratively with Arup and excited to share our plans and engagement programme soon.”
The selection process started with an expression of interest, which garnered more than 100 submissions from potential candidates.
An independent expert panel evaluated these submissions and shortlisted four based on artistic quality, approach to community engagement and integration within the wider public realm design.
These shortlisted proposals then entered a development phase, after which Instar’s submission was chosen.
Councillor Julia Hilton, deputy leader of Hastings Borough Council and lead councillor for shaping places and local government reorganisation, said: “I am delighted that we are entering the next stage of this project, with Instar being appointed.
“I look forward to seeing how their vision evolves as they work with the design team and the local community to create a meaningful and inspiring series of artworks that enrich the public realm scheme and reflects the character and creativity of Hastings.”
The project team also extended a “heartfelt thank you” to all applicants for their time, creativity and passion.
