Friday 1 May 2026
6.30pm

Amici Studio
12 Claremont
Hastings
TN34 1HA

Panel Discussion | Declarative Language × Art Working Parents, with Hettie Judah, Alexis Soul-Gray and Kelly Jessiman

Amici Studio hosts a panel discussion in collaboration with Art Working Parents, bringing together Hettie Judah, Alexis Soul-Gray and Kelly Jessiman to explore the realities of sustaining an artistic practice alongside caregiving.

The conversation builds on the work of the Art Working Parents Alliance, a UK-wide network supporting parents across the art world through peer exchange, mentoring and advocacy. Taking place within the context of Declarative Language, the discussion reflects on how practices are shaped by time constraints, emotional labour and the demands of care — not as limitations, but as conditions that actively reshape artistic thinking and production.

Moving between personal experience and wider structural questions, the panel will consider:

– navigating interruption, return and redefinition within artistic careers

– the visibility (or invisibility) of parenthood in the art world

– the role of networks, support systems and collective organising

– how institutions might evolve to better support artists with caring responsibilities

The format is open and conversational, with space for audience participation.

Tickets £5

(Free for concessions and unwaged — email community@amici.art )

About Amici Studio

Amici Studio is a multi-use creative space based in Hastings, East Sussex. Opening in January 2026 at 12 Claremont, next to Hastings Library, the Studio delivers a public programme of exhibitions, events and learning activity for artists, creative practitioners and local communities across Hastings, St Leonards and the wider East Sussex coast.

Exhibitions

The programme is structured around six two-month blocks across the year, each anchored by a core exhibition. These exhibitions form the backbone of Amici Studio’s activity and are accompanied by a wider layer of public-facing events, discussions and artist-led activity.

Events and Public Programme

Alongside exhibitions, Amici Studio hosts talks, performances, Salon Dinners and a monthly talks programme launching in spring 2026. These events create opportunities for conversation, exchange and shared experience around contemporary practice.

Artist Development

Amici Studio supports artist development through mentoring, portfolio conversations and practical workshops. These activities are designed to reduce barriers to participation, particularly for young people, early-career practitioners, disabled people and carers, and those facing financial or social obstacles to accessing arts and culture.

In Progress

When needed, the studio will host short-term artist In Progress occupations, offering space for live making, experimentation and exchange. These projects are process-led and provide opportunities for artists and audiences to engage with work in development.

Community and Collaboration

Amici Studio works closely with local partners and organisations, including Project Art Works, who are based in the same building. Collaboration and shared activity are central to the Studio’s approach, supporting connections across practices and communities.

Find Us

Amici Studio

12 Claremont

Hastings

East Sussex

TN34 1HA

Amici Studio is a five-minute walk from Hastings Station.

If you have time, it is also around a twenty-minute walk from St Leonards Warrior Square, via the independent shops of St Leonards and along the seafront for those with time for a more scenic route.

Trains from London

London Victoria (slower route)
London Charing Cross or London Bridge (approximately 1 hr 20 – 1 hr 40)
High Speed from London St Pancras International (change at Ashford International)

Get Involved

Amici Studio welcomes artists, audiences, community groups and collaborators to take part in its programme. Whether you’d like to attend an event, propose an idea or find out more, we encourage you to get in touch and be part of the conversation.

Contact: community@amici.art