*** UPDATE ***

The Turps | Hastings Programme has expanded its geographical reach and now encompasses the entire East Sussex region. The application deadline for our newly renamed Turps East Sussex Programme has been extended to 6th August. Please read the updated information below, as some details may have changed.

Turps East Sussex Programme is a mentoring programme for painters whose studios are based in East Sussex. If you are located on the border contact us and we will discuss potential inclusion.

Turps mentors visit participants in their own studios for one-to-one tutorials. Participants develop a supportive network of peers across the region through regularly scheduled group crits in Hastings and Brighton. Monthly artist talks will take place alternately at Hastings Contemporary and Phoenix Art Space throughout the academic year.

The programme runs from October 2025 through June 2026.

Overview:

• One-to-one tutorial sessions with a dedicated mentor at five scheduled points throughout the year

• Group crits held in venues in Hastings and Brighton, providing an opportunity to discuss work beyond the studio environment

• An opportunity to attend monthly artist talks, studio visits and afternoon seminars with the Turps East Sussex cohort at Hastings Contemporary and Phoenix Art Space.

• Opportunities to initiate peer-led mentoring and build network connections

• Connections with Turps | London

• Connections with peers via online digital platform

Fees for 2025/26: £2,950.

Application deadline: Wednesday 6th August 2025 (midnight). To apply click here.

Mentoring Team 2025/26
Geraldine Swayne
Joe Packer
Matthew Burrows
Paula MacArthur
The Baron Gilvan

Geography and Requirements:

Your studio should be within the geographical borders of East Sussex. If you are located near the border or have any concerns about the location of your studio please contact us before you apply and we can advise.

You will be expected to make your own travel arrangements to alternate monthly artist talks held in Hastings or Brighton and transport your work to Hastings and Brighton two or three times a year for group crits. To get the most out of the programme you will be encouraged to visit your peers in their studios and invite them to your studio outside of the structured aspects of the course.

Turps East Sussex is an alternative learning programme, not an accredited educational qualification. It is an opportunity for painters who are experienced in their practice to further their exploration of the media and re-energise that practice through a rigorous work ethic and critical engagement with peers and practicing artists, all within a supportive, timetabled structure.