Join Art in the Park for their Grand Opening!
By Ben Cornwell
Alexandra Park is undoubtedly one of Hastings crowning jewels. Strolling through the park and admiring its natural beauty is such a peaceful and relaxing pastime, particularly now that it is spring and the flowers are budding
and blooming. This is no doubt part of the reason why Arts on Prescription was bidding for the park to be their new home. In January, the community arts group, which focuses on mental health and wellbeing, were successfully granted a lease for the Bowling Pavilion and Lawn by the Hastings Borough Council.
Tara Reddy, founding director, says: “The team is delighted to have secured such a lovely accessible space to deliver art for wellbeing programs promoting the benefit of participating in art, culture and nature. This central location in Alexandra Park will provide a really therapeutic environment.”
CREDIT: Arts on Prescription
Cllr Paul Barnett, lead councillor for regeneration, adds: “The work they have been doing to help people and their wellbeing during the pandemic has been invaluable. I am sure they will be very successful in their new home.”
To celebrate the grand opening of their new home, the group are hosting an Easter Fete at the Bowling Pavilion on Saturday 16 April from 11-4pm. The Mayor of Hastings, Councillor James Bacon, will be coming at 11am to officially cut the ribbon.
The group will be running free art workshops throughout the day including Punch and Judy shows, Face Painting, qi gong and a wellbeing tent. Not to mention; music and entertainment from harpist India Blue and She Choir. There will also be an opportunity to contribute to The Alexandra Memory Book Workshop led by acclaimed artist Peter Quinnell. This Platinum Jubilee Project is inviting people to come and share their stories and photos to celebrate 70 years of our lovely urban park that meanders through Hastings.
It should be a fun day out for the whole family, so make sure to bring a picnic and your finest bonnet (there will be a prize for the best hat on the day) and show your support for this great local cause.
• Make sure to book your place for the Memory Book Workshop via email at [email protected]
• More information about Arts on Prescription is available at www.artsonprescription.org
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