ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT 1
ON THE ARTS MAP
CHAMPIONING
SLICES OF PEACE
CREATIVITY .
CONNECTING CULTURE . ELEVATING COMMUNITY .
BEATRIZ MILHAZES WORKSHOP
© John Sainsbury
Turner Contemporary marks its 13th anniversary with a bold step into the future . Under the visionary leadership of director Clarrie Wallis , who joined in 2022 , the gallery sets its sights on international recognition , with a world-class programme that sparks curiosity and nurtures creativity .
Perched on the picturesque North Sea coast , Turner Contemporary stands as a cultural hub within Margate ’ s dynamic creative community , connecting art , people and place . Its impact has been profound , propelling Margate into the international art spotlight and establishing it as a cultural stronghold in Kent .
Since 2011 , Turner Contemporary has catalysed Margate ’ s transformation into an arts education hub , hosting various arts organisations like Open School East , Art Education Exchange and The Margate School .
Inspired by the legacy of radical artist J . M . W . Turner , Turner Contemporary stands on the site of the boarding house where Turner stayed in Margate . Turner ’ s belief in art as a catalyst for change resonates throughout the gallery , driving its ambitious and innovative programming .
At its core , Turner Contemporary believes in the transformative power of art to stimulate innovative thinking and creativity and making art accessible to all . This ethos , inspired by
Turner ’ s visionary spirit , shapes the gallery ’ s mission to provide a platform for intellectual exploration and creative expression .
Functioning as a connector , Turner Contemporary collaborates with local educational and cultural partners through public programming and projects that elevate community and foster a sense of belonging .
“ Margate is undeniably the most vibrant creative community in the UK .”
CLARRIE WALLIS
One such collaboration is Slices of Peace , a public artwork in Orchard Park , Kings Hill , created in partnership with British- Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori , MBE . This project , a collaboration between Kings Hill development partners , Kent County Council ( KCC ) and the University for the Creative Arts ( UCA ), exemplifies Turner Contemporary ’ s commitment to community cohesion .
Kent ’ s landscape and heritage inspire much of Turner Contemporary ’ s programming . An upcoming exhibition featuring Anya Gallaccio ’ s work will explore the intersection of art and the environment , engaging local students through the educational initiative , An Apple a Day , celebrating Kent ’ s natural heritage .
Through bold and experimental art , Turner Contemporary presents exhibitions that inspire and educate . From supporting emerging artists like Michael Armitage to introducing pioneering figures like Ed Clark to UK audiences , the gallery enriches Kent ’ s cultural vibrancy .
Through its learning and engagement programmes , Turner Contemporary nurtures creativity , curiosity and critical thinking , empowering children and young people to explore their potential . Initiatives like Creative Lab provide a supportive environment for personal growth and self-expression .
Committed to free access , Turner Contemporary contributes significantly to the local economy and community wellbeing . Through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives , the gallery aims to strengthen Thanet ’ s cultural offering and foster sustainable growth .
As Turner Contemporary prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of J . M . W . Turner ’ s birth in 2025 , its commitment to community engagement and creative enrichment stands as a testament to Turner ’ s enduring legacy and his belief in the transformative power of art .
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