A new exhibition is capturing the colour and character of life by the sea.

The show, called Beside the Sea – Photography and Seaside Souvenirs, is currently open at Hastings Museum and Art Gallery on Bohemia Road until April 5 and runs every day except Mondays.

The exhibition is by Brighton-based photographer JJ Waller and follows his 2025 collaboration with the late Martin Parr on a similar show at the Hove Museum of Creativity.

Mr Waller has dedicated the Hastings exhibition to Mr Parr, who he described as a mentor and friend.

Mr Waller said: “Hastings is a unique town that punches far above its weight in the realms of music and arts.

“It is my favourite place in Britain to photograph. I love the museum and am chuffed to be showing there.”

The artist has photographed in Hastings and St Leonards since 2008 and features large-scale images from Blackpool, Brighton and Benidorm in the show.

The exhibition also includes work by invited artists exploring the theme of seaside souvenirs.

A bizarre visitor to Birling Gap. (Image: JJ Waller)

These include ceramics artist Alice Mara from Worthing, Margate’s Memphis Hennessy, and Modern Toss.

Peter Quinnell, a fellow artist, said Mr Waller’s work was full of humour and affection.

He said: “JJ Waller has become a local treasure. His photography will become a lasting record of the time and place.”