Catherine Yass Exhibition from De La Warr Pavilion on Vimeo.
If you think you have to be in the capital to experience some of the best exhibitions and performances that the country has to offer, think again. The De La Warr Pavilion on the south coast is an iconic Grade One listed building, housing a haven of modernist exhibitions and contemporary art. Home to both regional and international artists, Bexhill’s premier cultural institution has commissioned some awe-inspiring exhibitions since its opening in 2005.
Whether you prefer commercial bands or underground art, De La Warr Pavilion provides a range of entertainment to suit all tastes, from performances by KT Tunstall to works by Jeremy Deller and Susan Collins. You can wander round the main galleries to check out some of the permanent collections, or while away an hour or two watching some cutting-edge performance art. Whatever you enjoy, De La Warr Pavilion has something exciting for everyone - no wonder it welcomes over 350 000 visitors every year!
The summer season has just wrapped up after a hugely successful exhibition by Catherine Yass, visited by over 62,000 people. As well as this, the spectacularly bizarre beach on the roof, Dune, was a great success and played host to a selection of entertainment over the summer months. This season, you can expect a great choice of talks, tours and exhibitions, including an exploration of Andy Warhol’s lifestyle and legacy featuring some of his most recognisable pieces.
Next year’s rooftop commission, by artist Richard Wilson, is based on the final scene of the iconic film The Italian Job, and is sure to be a fantastic addition to the innovative artist’s body of work. For something completely different, De La Warr’s Random Fridays never fail to surprise and delight, showcasing an eclectic mix of art, film and music spread throughout the gallery. These Friday nights have become something of a talking point, as the live programme provides a platform for all things random.
The art deco De La Warr Pavilion was commissioned in 1935 and was the first Modernist public building in the UK. After restoration and redevelopment, the building re-opened in 2005, providing Bexhill’s finest selection of culture and entertainment. For newcomers, a great introduction to the De La Warr is their original Dining Club event. Featuring an exhibition tour followed by an a la carte three-course meal, it’s a great way to spend an evening enjoying delicious food and exclusive art.
