Humans of Hastings. Four film portraits directed and produced by Lewis Bennett. Inspired by both the off-the-wall characters who contribute to the artistic mosaic of Hastings – and Brandon Stanton’s 2010 photoblog Humans of New York, film-maker, Lewis Bennett presents the first of a series of film profiles that capture the originality, verve and creative range of this unique coastal community.
In the early hours of the Wednesday before the general election, a woman of 53 walked around Hastings writing political messages across the town using a set of wipe-clean blackboard pens. Within a relatively short period of time she had ‘chalked up’ 50 messages, before a passer-by spotted her writing on the shiny tiled walls of the Jerwood Gallery and reported her to the police. She was arrested whilst she was contemplating writing on the pub blackboards outside the London Trader. HOT’s Erica Smith went to court to find out more.
Last year SoCo Artists presented Showcase 1, a curated show of members selected by a committee of SoCo artists. The Showcase process allows artists to develop or consolidate a body of work supported by workshops, discussions and feedback. It proved so successful that it is back again as Showcase 2. HOT’s Lauris Morgan-Griffiths went along to take a look.
A rare chance to experience and observe an opera masterclass in action. Barefoot Opera continues to explore new ways for audiences to engage with the art of singing, with a fascinating glimpse into the detailed coaching and training that young opera singers undergo.
Martha Trust supports young people and adults with profound disabilities at homes in Deal and Hastings, providing lifetime care in a safe and loving environment, respite and day care. And this year they are celebrating their 30th Anniversary. Martha Trust was founded in 1983 by a small group of Christians from Deal. They felt there had to be a better alternative to the NHS long stay mental health hospitals and institutions where people with profound disabilities were being placed. They believed those with profound disabilities should be able to live life to the full and get the most out of each and every day. Their vision combined with a lot of hard work, determination and support from the local community means that thirty years on Martha continues to support families and their loved ones to live fulfilling lives in a safe, loving environment. Martha Trust’s Kerry Rubins writes.
Saxophonist Lynda Murray is a regular participant in jazz concerts around Hastings. Here she reports on the Mike Hext Sextet’s recent gig in Robertsbridge, featuring special guest John Horler on piano and, during the second set, herself on alto.
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