If you grew up here, you’ll know that Folkestone has always been in flux. The ferries, the fairground, the old amusements – all gone. But in their place: opportunity, creativity, and a whole new energy. It’s not the same town I ran around in as a kid, not even the one I skulked around in as a teenager. And let’s be real, it probably won’t be the same again in another ten years, even though it’s pretty darn great now.
And that’s kind of the point. Right?
My exhibition this year, as part of Open Art Folke 25 – Change – is my attempt to hold that thought in one place for a second. To show what was, what is, and to open up a space to talk about what might come next.
From the archives to the streets
It started with a stack of photographs taken by my partner’s grandad, Ramon Milton – or Ray – a brilliant photographer who documented Folkestone life through the 70s and 80s. We realised that so many of his images lined up with places that still exist today - the same taxi ranks on the road, the same tree lines on the hills. So we began photographing them again, matching the locations and splicing past and present together.
Some of the pieces blend the old and new so seamlessly, you might not notice where one ends and the other begins. Others are more jarring – and that’s intentional. Because change doesn’t always feel smooth. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable. But it’s always part of something bigger (and most often… better!).
Regeneration and reaction
The exhibition was also sparked by recent conversations around Folkestone’s future – particularly the seafront development. I went to the public consultation and was surprised by some of the pushback. The sheer amount of sh*t the architects were getting from the public - as if they weren’t even human. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with different opinions, but the tone really took me aback.
There’s a generation of us who remember when the Harbour Arm was derelict. Who used to climb fences just to get a look at the sea. And now, because of the change, people can enjoy it – legally! (see more in my interview with Folkestone Despatch)
I get that people feel protective. But I also think it’s short-sighted to say: “Stop here. I like it like this.” Because the version of Folkestone that you love? That exists because of change. Most of the people who live here today, not always warranting a “down from London” label, are here because of the change that happened to Folkestone (often citing a day trip that turned it into a full-blown move down the country).
And if we freeze it in time, who misses out next?
For the Folkestonians – old and new
This show is for anyone who’s ever called Folkestone home – whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just landed. It features collaged photography, blended historical film reels, and interactive spaces where adults and kids can colour and create their own view of the town (after all, it is the summer holidays). Hopefully, it opens up a bit of dialogue across generations.
It’s not about saying “this was better” or “that’s worse”. It’s about recognising the layers. Because if you dig deep enough, you’ll find that we’re all part of the same story – one version of Folkestone stitched into another.
🗓 Change: Folkestone – Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow
📍 Market Square, downstairs in the basement
📅 Friday 1 August, 6–9pm (Private View - Open invitation)
Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 August, 10am–3pm
Encore dates: 29–31 August, 10am–3pm
🎟 Free entry
☕️ Bonus: great food, drinks & coffee served upstairs!
Hope to see you there.