Flash mob: Naked beach stunt aims to catch the eye of acclaimed photographer Spencer Tunick
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Up to 30 hardy exhibitionists braved bitingly cold wind and rain to bare all in a naked flash mob on a beach.
The stunt was staged in Hastings, East Sussex, in an effort to attract acclaimed photographer Spencer Tunick to the seaside town.
The resort's Jerwood Gallery is on a three-strong shortlist, alongside venues in Folkestone, Kent, and Brighton, vying to host American Tunick, famed for mass nude photoshoots.
Against the backdrop of Hastings' fishing boats in the Old Town area, people disrobed in an attempt to win the public vote contest, organised by Culture 24.
Among those who took part was new mother Hannah Corke, 25, who said afterwards: "I thought it was really funny.
"It hasn't been done before. I gave birth five months ago and it's quite liberating to get naked in front of lots of people and get rid of that post-pregnancy fear."
Fellow participant Sam Wickham, 43, said: "I gave birth six months ago and I also thought it would be liberating.
"My body is probably not in the best shape, but I'm happy to show it off. There was a lot of camaraderie."
The Jerwood Gallery is up against the Georges House Gallery, Folkestone, and Brighton's Royal Pavilion and Museums to secure Tunick for a photoshoot during the Connect 10 Museums at Night Festival weekend in May.
Gallery director Liz Gilmore said: "Hastings is so celebrated for its special festivals, including Jack in the Green, Pirate's Day and Hastings bonfire.
"The culturally-rich and quirky traditions of Hastings and actual site location would make a wonderfully fitting context for this one-off event."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments