Socially Engaged Art Salon (SEAS) CIC develops exhibitions, workshops, public events and collaborative arts projects that explore important social, cultural and environmental issues. The company uses art, photography, film and participatory activities to bring people together, encourage dialogue and make cultural opportunities more accessible. SEAS particularly supports migrants and refugees, LGBTQI+ people, Black and Global Majority communities, and artists experiencing economic, educational or social disadvantage. Its activities provide opportunities for people whose experiences remain underrepresented within mainstream cultural institutions to develop and present their work, share their stories and participate in creative activity. Projects are developed in collaboration with artists, community members, volunteers, cultural venues and partner organisations. This collaborative approach helps ensure that activities respond to participants’ interests, experiences and needs. Through workshops, exhibitions, discussions and public events, participants can develop creative and practical skills, build confidence, reduce isolation and form connections with people from different backgrounds. SEAS also supports the professional development and public visibility of underrepresented artists by providing exhibition opportunities, peer networks and platforms for work addressing subjects such as migration, identity, racism, LGBTQI+ experiences, cultural heritage, environmental justice and social inequality. Its public programmes encourage wider audiences to engage with experiences that are frequently overlooked or misrepresented, helping to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding across communities. Any income and resources generated by the company are reinvested in its community-focused programme, including paying artists and facilitators where possible, supporting accessible activities and developing future projects for public benefit. No surplus is distributed for private benefit. Examples of SEAS’s activities during 2024–26 include The Queer Beach at Jubilee Library; Home/Land for Refugee Week at Colonnade House; Outlooks on the English Countryside with the Sussex BPOC Photography Collective; Haunted Nature at Devil’s Dyke; Trans Lens: Visibility, Resistance and Everyday Life; Interweaving Spaces at Worthing Museum; and exhibitions and events connected with No Man’s Lands, Sea of Change and the New Union Flag. Together, these activities supported underrepresented artists and communities, widened access to the arts and created opportunities for learning, creative expression, social connection and public dialogue.

SEAS CIC’s stakeholders include artists, workshop participants, volunteers, community partners and visitors. Activities took place at BMECP, The Ledward Centre and Jubilee Library. Feedback was gathered through exhibition feedback books, conversations with participants and artists, and discussions with venue managers and partner organisations about accessibility and programme effectiveness. Stakeholders recommended allowing more planning time and strengthening outreach, publicity and audience development, particularly to engage people who do not usually access galleries or cultural activities. In response, SEAS appointed a team member responsible for planning, outreach, marketing and public relations. It also began planning further in advance, strengthening partnerships and improving promotion to relevant communities.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration