2 – 17 September 2023

For Artwave 2023, Depot invites you to enter the mesmerising world of ‘Black and White’ where monochromatic masterpieces take centre stage.

Step into a realm where shades of gray captivate the senses, as we pay homage to the timeless beauty of black and white art by transporting you to the golden era of cinema with three classic films; romantic-comedy Safety Last!, which features one of the most famous scenes of the silent film era; Epic of Everest, the official record of Mallory and Irvine’s 1924 expedition to reach the summit of the great mountain; and King Vidor’s flawless and astonishing The Crowd.

We’ll also be hosting a selection of engaging workshops – a charoal life drawing class & film poster leterpress workshop – as well as our yearly open-call exhibition where you can enter your own artwork to be displayed at Depot – scroll down for details on how to submit.

Immerse yourself in a celebration of contrast, texture, and the artistry of black and white, where every stroke and every scene unfolds with a poetic grace that is simply unforgettable.

Films in this season

Virtual Reality Experiences

Join us for two immersive virtual realtiy experiences for Artwave 2023.

PROMENADE immerses you into a series of deconstructed city scenes developed from a series of iconic Lino prints by artist Mike Hatjoullis. It tells Mike’s story from 2nd generation Greek Cypriot immigrant restaurant worker in 1950’s Blackpool, to influential RCA Textile Designer and Master Printmaker.

(HI)STORY OF A PAINTING: WHAT IS THE POINT? journeys into an animated experience that uncovers the story of the man behind La Grande Jatte, Georges Seurat, and its historic importance. This painting was revolutionary in more ways than one: it was made possible thanks to the industrial revolution and was the precursor to what we today call the “pixel.” But it was not always well received.

The VR environment comes to life with imagery illustrating the narrative and gives a sense of scale of the artwork, allowing anyone, from anywhere in the world, to form an intimate bond with La Grande Jatte. The experience follows Georges’ winding path to success and illustrates how an artist can come from anywhere.

Open Exhibition

Image credit: Galia Pike

Black and White: Depot Open Exhibition

Every Saturday & Sunday in Depot’s Studio from 2 – 17 September, 10:00 – 17:00. Free entry

The monochrome palette has been used by many artists for centuries – from charcoal, pen and pencil drawings to photography to sculpture.

We invite you to explore the depths of black and white at our curated exhibition of work submitted from the public, diving into the shadows, lines and beauty of a world without colour.

Drawing Class

Pat Thornton will be leading a drawing class in the Studio at Depot, themed on the Artwave exhibition ‘Black and White’. To respond to the theme the class will be drawing from the model dressed in black and white using charcoal.

All materials will be supplied so you only need to bring yourselves. All are welcome, experienced or complete beginners.

Pat Thornton is a practicing artist based in Sussex, and teaches a regular drawing class at the Paddock Art Studios in Lewes.