Turner Contemporary is one of the UK’s leading contemporary art galleries. Celebrating Margate’s connection with the painter J.M.W. Turner (1775 – 1851), an artist who believed that art could be an agent of change, its year-round exhibition programme offers free access to creative and cultural experiences. The building, designed by Sir David Chipperfield, is recognised as an important cultural icon. The ground floor accommodates a reception area, shop, event space and cafe while the main exhibition spaces are on the first floor, benefitting from natural north light and panoramic views of the North Sea. Working with Kent County Council, a committed partner in a long-term strategy that puts culture at the heart of place-making, the gallery has established a locally embedded, nationally significant gallery connecting art, people, and place. Turner Contemporary plays a leading role in advocating for the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and creative learning. Its pioneering Learning programme works with thousands of children, young people, and adults every year. The gallery is committed to ensuring that its work is relevant and representative of diverse audiences, particularly those in its immediate vicinity. Philosophical enquiry, child-led leadership and co-curation underpin Turner Contemporary's approach. Prior to the pandemic the gallery attracted c.400,000 visitors a year, making it one of Kent’s top visitor attractions. Turner Contemporary is widely recognised as an essential catalyst for the regeneration of East Kent and has a strong track record of driving positive impact through the arts. Margate has fast become one of the most exciting creative hubs in the UK with a growing arts scene. Though this rise echoes few other seaside towns, the economy within Thanet is fragile. The gallery’s activities continue to reflect a commitment to inspire through art and look to develop social as well as economic impacts that help tackle local challenges. Positioning itself as a cultural anchor, the gallery fosters relationships and builds networks between artists, art professionals, and organisations looking to increase co-production opportunities and champion a more creative connected community. Victoria Pomery OBE was appointed Founding Director in 2002. She left her post in September 2021 to join The Box, Plymouth, after 19 years in post and through the gallery’s first 10 years of operation. In January 2022, Clarrie Wallis took over as Director of Turner Contemporary. Wallis was previously Tate’s Senior Curator of Contemporary Art since 2016 and a curator at Tate since 1999. Since opening in