Contemporary Elders Programme

Focal Point Gallery supports the production and presentation of new and recent contemporary art that challenges us to think and feel differently about locality, our sense of self and the importance of communities. Our wide-ranging and pioneering artistic programme is relevant to local and national audiences alike, through exploring current concerns that also resonate internationally. Based in Southend-on-Sea on the Thames Estuary, FPG’s activities take place in locations across the region with our reach extended by working collaboratively with like-minded partners.

Focal Point Gallery

Join us for Contemporary Elders this August with writer Syd Moore!

Focal Point Gallery's Contemporary Elders programme will take place on the penultimate weekend of each month and we are welcome to new participants.As part of the programme celebrating Elsa James’ inaugural solo exhibition ‘Othered, in a region that has been historically othered’, acclaimed writer Syd Moore will be visiting Focal Point Gallery to talk about the research which she embeds in her novels about the witch trials and speaking about the othering that the accused experienced. Following the talk Syd will lead a walk around Old Leigh, the setting of her first novel, The Drowning Pool, and speaking about some of the many curious and wyrd tales that thread through this historic stretch of the estuary.Lunch and train fare is included in this event. The days running:- We will begin the talk at 10am at Focal Point Gallery. - We will then take the train as a group to Leigh-on-Sea and the tour will begin from there. - We will have small lunch at a local café at the end of the tour, at which point the event will end. Whether you are new to contemporary art or a regular gallery attendee, you are welcome. You can attend on your own, with a partner or with friends. All workshops will be focused on the social side, with no prior art experience or understanding needed. Just a willingness to get involved! This group is for anyone aged over 60.Please book your ticket in advance to guarantee your space.Please check back regularly for updates on future events!Focal Point Gallery is wheelchair accessible and there are additional materials available to enhance your visit, e.g. large print information sheets, family activity sheets and dedicated quiet times. The team will be happy to support your needs and more information can be found on our website at www.fpg.org.uk or phone us on 01702 534108 or email us at focalpointgallery@southend.gov.ukContemporary Elders was set up pre-covid to challenge and liberate the term ‘elder’ from the stigma of ‘elderly’ and encourages us to embrace wisdom as a path to growing whole, not old.The Contemporary Elders programme is low cost and consists of workshops, guided tours, walks and social meetups to join like-minded elders together to break down barriers, encourage life-long learning and enjoyment of the arts in all its forms."I have learnt new things and gained completely new perspectives and I go home with new ideas and thoughts i.e. I ‘ve been woken up out of my static state, and I like it." - A quote from a Contemporary Elder's participant.

Our {communityGuidelinesLink} describe the sort of content we prohibit on Eventbrite. If you suspect an event may be in violation, you can report it to us so we can investigate.

To report other categories of prohibited or illegal content, submit {link}

Contemporary Elders Programme

More events from Focal Point Gallery

Discover more events from Focal Point Gallery, from Hobbies to other experiences you might love.

Still looking for the right event?

Explore all events in Southend-on-Sea and filter by date, category, and more to find the perfect fit.

Contemporary Elders Programme

More events from Focal Point Gallery

Discover more events from Focal Point Gallery, from Hobbies to other experiences you might love.

More Hobbies events

Browse more Hobbies events with different dates, prices, and formats to find your next great experience.

Still looking for the right event?

Explore all events in Southend-on-Sea and filter by date, category, and more to find the perfect fit.