Jerwood Yes, say Planning responses

The Jerwood Foundation has now set up a website all about the new gallery it plans to build in Hastings. We can now start to see both more about the gallery and collection (some delicious and tantalising images such as Ann Redpath’s delicate Still Life), their plans to use Hastings artists to paint the hoardings around the building site (an agreeable if modest gesture), and the first floor terrace café which will no doubt become a popular hang-out if they can keep the wind off.

The re-run consultation produced some interesting insights. Jerwood, one supporter observes, “will put us on the map in an area we already shine in”, citing our “artists of all disciplines”. Many praise the building design with its subtly beautiful materials such as zinc cowlings and the dark metallic-glazed ceramic facing tiles.

Another says that the beleaguered fishing community can only benefit from high-powered, media-savvy people visiting and seeing their situation for themselves. And there’s a welcome for the idea that fishing, art and candyfloss will all come together in one spot.

One, who surely speaks for many of us, says she will heave a sigh of relief once it’s all approved. And in response to the die-hard accusations that Jerwood is exploiting Hastings, the observation that the proposal represents a “great mark of respect to Hastings” should surely go on the record.

In fact, these comments are building up into a great and much needed “Welcome” sign from Hastings to the Jerwood, and saying just how much it means to us as individuals and as a community.

See http://www.jerwoodgallery.org/

Also in: Home Ground