Arts & Culture in Tunbridge Wells & West Kent

Supports local artists and the community through a variety of creative activities, including mentoring sessions, salon dinners, and artist talks. Aims to enhance community engagement and provide valuable resources for artists and art enthusiasts.

Arts Hastings CIC promotes arts and creativity in Bexhill-On-Sea by offering inclusive workshops and events tailored for individuals of all ages and abilities, with a particular focus on supporting local residents, including those with learning disabilities. The organization fosters artistic expression and collaboration within the community, creating opportunities for engagement and participation in the arts.

Offers a community space where individuals can access recycled art materials to inspire creativity and reduce waste. The Scrapstore serves artists, parents, teachers, and anyone interested in crafting, providing a welcoming environment for all ages and abilities. Members can join for an annual fee, allowing them to take materials for their projects and return unused items. Since its inception in 2019, the organization has successfully diverted thousands of kilos of materials from landfill, promoting sustainability and creative expression within the community.

Offers inclusive drumming sessions for individuals of all ages and skill levels in Ashford, Kent. The organization provides instruments, tuition, and support to foster musical creativity and community connections. Led by Thomas Green of drum&ink, they encourage participation through regular open sessions at The Hot House, promoting collaboration within the local community. Additionally, they host group art and music workshops, making the arts accessible to everyone.

Offers creative responses to human distress through wellness benches, live events, and one-on-one recovery support, fostering connections among adults in the community.

Offers interactive workshops and exhibitions focused on mechanical art, particularly automata, to inspire creativity and engineering skills. They engage learners of all ages, including schools and community groups, to promote hands-on learning experiences. Based in Hastings, UK, their programs aim to enhance creativity through the art of automata making. As a non-profit organization, all profits are reinvested into community engagement projects and educational resources.

Offers a variety of activities focused on enhancing mental and physical well-being, including social events, creative workshops, and collaborative book projects. The club aims to foster community connections and provide support for individuals in the Lydd area.

Offers an artist-led ceramics studio that provides memberships, classes, community workshops, and artist residencies. They create a supportive environment for local artists, families, and community members to explore and develop their skills in ceramics. The studio also hosts social events and exhibitions, fostering engagement with the wider community in Bexhill-on-Sea. Their unique approach emphasizes collaboration and creativity, making ceramics accessible to all.

Focuses on recycling crisp packets to create survival items for individuals and community groups in need. Engages local volunteers in crafting workshops while promoting eco-friendly practices and supporting those facing challenging times across the UK.

Offers classes in carpentry and do-it-yourself skills, catering to individuals looking to develop practical skills and pursue creative projects. The workshop provides free supported sessions for local community groups, fostering inclusivity and skill development. A membership scheme is available for those needing workspace, and they also offer fabrication services to artists and galleries. Operating in Bexhill-on-Sea, they focus on community engagement and creative expression.

Offers engaging drama, music, and dance education and performance opportunities aimed at fostering creativity and artistic expression. They primarily support local communities, including schools and youth groups, by providing workshops and performances that enhance cultural awareness and artistic skills. Their programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that participants from various backgrounds can engage in the arts. Operating mainly in Hastings, they focus on empowering young people and local residents through artistic endeavors.

Delivers community-driven arts and cultural projects that enhance engagement and social cohesion within Hastings. They specialize in strategic project management, research, and funding, focusing on initiatives that promote community well-being and inclusion. Their work supports local residents and organizations in the culture, heritage, and arts sectors, fostering collaboration and creativity. Through various projects, they aim to enrich the local cultural landscape and provide opportunities for participation in the arts.

Supports the mental health of military and blue light families through hands-on outdoor experiences and woodcraft activities. Participants engage in skills like foraging and bushcraft cooking, fostering resilience and connection in a natural environment.

Organizes an annual open-air music festival in Kent that is fully accessible for individuals of all abilities and disabilities. The festival features live music, workshops, and various activities to create an inclusive environment for community engagement.

Focuses on commissioning and developing artists at critical moments in their careers through a variety of exhibitions and educational programs. They support both emerging and established artists, offering essential development opportunities that foster creativity and community engagement. Operating in Bexhill-On-Sea, they aim to enhance the local artistic ecology of East Sussex by providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and connect with the community. Their unique approach includes tailored support for artists navigating fragile or pivotal points in their careers.

Hosts themed dressing-up events, parties, and festivals that encourage self-expression and foster community connection. The initiative primarily supports individuals seeking empowerment and engagement, creating an inclusive environment for participants from diverse backgrounds. Operating in St. Leonards-On-Sea, Frock Up Friday CIC aims to bring joy and a sense of belonging through creative and fun activities. Their unique approach focuses on celebrating individuality and promoting social interaction among attendees.

Offers a variety of dance and fitness classes, themed birthday parties, and workshops tailored for children and young people. Their services include cheerleading, street dance, and disco parties, all designed to promote creativity and physical activity. Future Dance CIC operates primarily in Ashford, Kent, and surrounding areas, providing engaging experiences that foster community involvement. They also conduct specialized workshops for primary schools, enhancing the educational experience through movement and dance.

Offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 2 to 5 years in Ashford, focusing on their social, emotional, and educational development through hands-on, experiential learning. The playschool serves up to 30 children, providing a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, messy play, and outdoor exploration to support individual learning needs. With a dedicated staff, they create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages creativity and critical thinking. The facility features a secure outdoor play area, allowing children to engage in daily outdoor activities.

Offers an inclusive platform for individuals to express themselves through singing a cappella arrangements of punk and post-punk songs, embracing a DIY ethos. The choir fosters community engagement and creativity among those who may feel excluded from traditional music settings.

Facilitates a youth-led theatre project that collaborates with young people aged 16-20 to adapt and abridge Shakespeare's Hamlet for a contemporary high school setting. The initiative emphasizes mental health and neurodivergent-affirming practices, allowing participants to explore themes of identity, grief, and pressure while fostering personal development through creative engagement. The project is designed to be replicable by schools and youth theatres, prioritizing wellbeing and participation over performance polish. It creates a supportive environment for reflection and discussion without requiring personal disclosure.

Designs and facilitates workshops and creative activities that focus on community engagement, creativity, and connection with nature. They aim to support local residents and groups in Bexhill-On-Sea by fostering collaborative artistic experiences that promote a more just and sustainable future. Their programs often involve hands-on activities that encourage participants to explore their creativity while building connections with their environment and each other.

Making Music Accessible CIC provides inclusive music education and opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds in the Sevenoaks area. The organization offers tailored support, resources, and activities aimed at enhancing musical skills and fostering a love for music, ensuring accessibility for everyone, regardless of their experience level or goals.

Offers immersive and multi-sensory theatre experiences specifically designed for children and young people with complex sensory needs. They provide engaging activities such as drama, movement, and tai chi that foster creativity and self-expression. Their workshops, known as The Troupe, create a supportive space for disabled, autistic, or neurodivergent young people on the brink of adulthood. The company focuses on delivering high-quality performances tailored to their audiences, allowing children to escape into magical adventures supported by musical characters.

Facilitates town-wide discussions on race, identity, and social justice in Hastings through a diverse range of exhibitions, workshops, talks, and performances. The initiative engages and empowers the local community, fostering understanding and dialogue among residents from various backgrounds. It particularly focuses on the experiences of Black individuals and other marginalized groups, aiming to create a more inclusive environment. Their creative activities and events ignite conversations on race and promote cultural heritage.

Organizes live music events featuring classic rock tribute performances, bringing together music enthusiasts in Sevenoaks and surrounding areas. The shows celebrate the iconic hits of the 60s, 70s, and 80s, providing a platform for local musicians while fostering community engagement. Their events create a vibrant social atmosphere, enhancing the cultural landscape and offering entertainment for all ages. Rock Revival C.I.C. aims to revive the spirit of classic rock through high-quality performances and memorable experiences.

Offers studio spaces, venues for hire, and a diverse program of workshops, events, and fine art exhibitions aimed at engaging the local community and visitors. The centre supports over 30 artists with dedicated studio spaces and provides opportunities for artistic participation through classes and events. Located in Rye, East Sussex, it fosters cultural enrichment and creative collaboration among artists and the wider community. Their unique approach includes a focus on community involvement and accessibility to the arts.

Offers a welcoming space for young people aged 10-17 in Rye and the surrounding area, providing a variety of activities such as games, sports, arts and crafts, and youth voice projects. They focus on fostering friendships, personal development, and providing support for education and wellbeing. The organization collaborates with local venues to host events like games nights and sports sessions, ensuring that young people have access to engaging and supportive environments. Their vision is to create a caring atmosphere where youth can be heard, accepted, and encouraged to reach their potential.

Organizes and promotes a diverse range of adventurous cultural events, including music, film, poetry, and theatre, primarily in Cranbrook, Tenterden, and the Kentish Marsh area. They aim to engage and enrich the local community by providing accessible cultural experiences for both residents and visitors, thereby fostering a vibrant arts scene. The Skep serves as a central hub for planning and celebrating these artistic endeavors, featuring a welcoming space for various performances and community gatherings. Their unique approach includes hosting a variety of shows that highlight local talent and cultural heritage.

Offers a variety of inclusive services aimed at preventing isolation and enhancing the wellbeing of neurodivergent individuals and their families. Key activities include weekly Family Stay, Play & Learn sessions for children aged 0–8, outdoor Nature Connections sessions focused on wellbeing, and monthly Coffee & Art mornings for parents and carers. They also provide community social sessions and support for children facing barriers to education, ensuring that families feel connected and supported. Operating in Rother, East Sussex, their approach emphasizes the restorative power of nature and community engagement.

Hosts a variety of world-class live music events in St. Leonards-On-Sea, featuring diverse genres from classical to experimental. The organization supports musicians and artists while providing accessible concert experiences for the local community.

Offers a variety of accessible workshops and art retail opportunities aimed at local residents and artists in St Leonards-on-Sea. The Alley Studio fosters creativity and community engagement through eco-conscious arts programming, which includes community events designed to strengthen local connections and encourage artistic expression. They serve individuals of all ages interested in exploring their creativity and participating in a supportive artistic environment. The studio is dedicated to promoting pride in place and enhancing the local arts scene.

Organizes and hosts vibrant community events and festivals in Ashford, showcasing local artists and performers. The festival provides a platform for creative expression, enriching the cultural landscape and fostering community engagement.

Provides essential support for individuals living with dementia and their families in Kent through free coffee mornings, community events, and creative workshops. Their initiatives, such as 'Hug in a Mug' coffee mornings and information sharing sessions, aim to foster social connections and enhance understanding of dementia within the community. The organization offers 1:1 guidance, resources, and uplifting events like classical concerts to create a supportive environment for those affected by dementia. By encouraging membership and participation, they strive to reduce isolation and promote positivity among caregivers and families.

Organizes an annual literary festival in Hastings, providing a vibrant platform for local authors and book enthusiasts. The festival features a diverse range of events, including author talks, workshops, and outreach activities aimed at promoting literature appreciation. It serves the local community, particularly families and children, by offering affordable ticketing and free events to ensure accessibility. The festival fosters a love for reading and writing, supporting local talent and engaging the community in literary culture.

Offers sewing clubs and holiday camps designed for children aged 7 and older, focusing on fostering creativity and confidence through hands-on sewing experiences. The Little Sewing School provides term-time clubs and holiday camps across Kent, as well as school workshops that support young people's learning and development in crafting skills. Their unique approach emphasizes practical skills and creative expression, making sewing accessible and enjoyable for young participants.

Promotes the rights and visibility of the transgender community in Hastings and surrounding areas through various events and advocacy initiatives. They offer workshops, such as the 'Letter to My Little Trans Self' writing workshop, aimed at empowering trans and non-binary individuals to reflect on their experiences. Additionally, they organize community events like the Trans Day of Remembrance vigil, fostering inclusivity and providing safe spaces for the local transgender population. Their efforts are focused on creating a supportive environment for individuals to connect and share their stories.

Provides group and individual support for children and young people affected by family illness, bereavement, or suicide. Their services are delivered in school settings across rural Rother, including Battle and Bexhill, enabling young people to explore their emotions through arts and crafts and talking opportunities. They focus on creating a safe environment for emotional expression and offer information and advice to families and schools during difficult times. Referrals can be made by parents, carers, schools, and other supporting agencies.

Specializes in TV, radio, and music production, providing innovative media solutions for local artists. They establish recording studios and broadcasting facilities in Wadhurst, enabling both emerging and established musicians to centralize their creative projects. Wrokdown Media also promotes local talent through events like the global festival Wrokdownabilly, celebrating 1950s Rockabilly music. Their commitment to quality and creativity ensures that artists have the necessary resources to produce and share their work effectively.

Provides a vibrant community club for retired individuals in Heathfield and the surrounding area, focusing on intergenerational activities that foster connections between older adults and local children aged 3-11. Their services include craft sessions, Qigong, singing, and nutritious meals, all designed to enhance the quality of life for elderly participants while promoting social interaction and community engagement. The programme integrates local primary schools and a nursery, allowing children to engage with older members, enriching both groups' experiences. Young at Heart operates in a welcoming environment at Heathfield Park Cricket Club, committed to enhancing the lives of its members in retirement.

3D Community CIC is dedicated to fostering creativity and skill development in the local community through workshops and projects focused on 3D design and animation. They primarily support individuals, particularly young people and aspiring artists, by providing access to resources and training in digital arts.