This Black History Month, the Socially Engaged Art Salon is putting a spotlight on BPOC artists and photographers with their upcoming exhibition ‘Flags of Diversity‘.
For the rest of the month, we’re pleased to be showcasing an inspiring exhibition in partnership with Sussex Bay, welcoming back some familiar faces with exhibitions from local ceramicist Brian Tew and photographer Paul Kemp as well as introducing you to some fantastic upcoming local opportunities.
Mel Elston-Mendones: Art that Moves
Until 05 October // 10.00 – 17.00
Delve into the vibrant world of Mel Elston-Mendones and uncover layers of cultural, creative and personal themes that are woven into his art practice.
AH: After Hysterectomy
Until 05 October // 10.00 – 17.00
Sebastian Rowlands is presenting new works made in response to their gender-affirming surgery last year. Viewers are invited to touch, smell, listen and see the traces left behind.
Socially Engaged Art Salon: Flags of Diversity
07 – 18 October // 10.00 – 17.00
Flags of Diversity brings together artists and photographers who are reclaiming and redesigning the use of flags to open up a space for reimagining the future to become a gesture of inclusion and belonging.
Flags of Diversity Artist Talk & Workshop
Saturday 11 October // 11.00 – 12.00 // Free
As part of the Flags of Diversity exhibition, artist & researcher Gil Mualem-Doron will be talking about The New Union Flag Project, a reimagining of the UK’s national flag. Following the talk, participants will be able to create their own flag in the free workshop.
Book your free place here.
Sussex Bay Creates: Living Sea
21 – 25 October// 10.00 – 17.00
In July and August we partnered with Sussex Bay to deliver two weeks of free workshops for children and young people. We’re pleased to be continuing our work with them for an exhibition under the banner of Sussex Bay Creates.
The exhibition features the work of seven artists each working along the Sussex Coast. These are Laura Callaghan, Lila Wordsworth, Nina Garstang, Emma Chow, Andy Ash, Kate McMinnies and Simon Roberts.
Brian Tew: Mixed Media
28 October – 02 November // 10.00 – 17.00
Using imagination and intuition, Brian creates unique ceramics, sculpture and mixed media pieces that combines his love for experimentation with material.
Worthing: A Portrait
28 October – 02 November // 10.00 – 17.00
Through portraiture, landscapes and interiors, Paul is able to capture overlooked details from across Worthing that transform the ordinary to the extraordinary when we take the time to slow down and look around us.
Opportunities & Events
Royal Institute of Painters // Open Call // Deadline 10 October // £20
Artists working in oil and paint are encouraged to submit work for the Royal Institute of oil painters annual exhibition. This year’s theme is home, and is open to artists anywhere in the world. Find out more and apply here.
CIL Community Funding // Deadline 12 October // Free
Applications for Worthing’s Community infrastructure Levy (CIL) Neighbourhood Fund are closing soon. The fund covers one-off project costs for projects that are benefitting communities in Worthing. Find out more and apply here.
Our Place // Deadline 20 October // Free
Our Place is a celebration of creativity across Brighton, providing opportunities for the community to see and participate in art. Brighton Dome & Brighton Festival are on the lookout for an artist in residence to work with the community between January and May 2026. Find out more and apply here.
Tern Call for Artworks // Deadline 26 October // Free
Tern have got some empty walls in their restaurant opening soon. They’re on the look our for contemporary, diverse, original artwork with a preference for paint, print & mixed media. Priority will be given to artists in Worthing and surrounding areas. Find out more and apply here.
Life Drawing Workshops // 08 October & 03 December // £20 – £25
The Steyning Arts Society is now offering a series of Life Drawing workshops for members and non-members in collaboration with Draw Brighton & Steyning Grammar school. Spaces are limited so be sure to book your place on the workshop here.