The 2025 Folkestone Triennial has once again transformed the coastal town into a vibrant open-air gallery, with this year's edition focusing on themes of conflict, survival, and human endurance. Curated by the renowned art collective ARK, the exhibition features 15 ambitious installations scattered across Folkestone's urban landscape and shoreline.
Art That Confronts and Challenges
Among the most talked-about pieces is a monumental sculpture by emerging artist Jamila Prowse. The work, constructed from repurposed military equipment, creates a striking juxtaposition against Folkestone's picturesque harbour. Visitors can walk through the installation, experiencing both the physical weight and metaphorical resonance of the materials.
Highlights Not to Miss
- The Listening Post: An interactive sound installation that collects and broadcasts stories from local residents about their experiences with displacement and migration.
- Tide Mark: A series of floating sculptures that rise and fall with the harbour's tides, symbolizing the ebb and flow of human conflict.
- Memory Field: Hundreds of hand-crafted ceramic poppies planted across a former bomb site, creating a powerful memorial space.
Engaging the Community
This year's Triennial places particular emphasis on community participation, with several works created through collaborations with local schools and refugee support groups. The exhibition runs until October, with guided tours and artist talks scheduled throughout the summer.
As with previous editions, the artworks will remain in place for three years, continuing Folkestone's transformation into one of Britain's most exciting destinations for contemporary public art.
