Four young local poets commissioned to explore ideas about care, active citizenship, connection and community through poetry.

In partnership with Eggtooth, we recently commissioned four young local poets to explore ideas about care, active citizenship, connection and community. Their work invites us to consider ways to act with more care in our own lives, foster allyship and interdependency, and create a more equitable society.

These commissions are present as part of the De La Warr Pavilion Care & Citizenship programme – a series of commissions, online talks, workshops, events and resources co-devised with organisations and individuals committed to creating a social change.

Jess Paynter

Riley Flynn

Tom McCann

Tilia Guilbaud-Walter

About the artists

Jess Paynter (she/her)

I am 18 years old and have lived in Hastings since I was just 2 years old. I’ve been singing and writing songs and poems for as long as I can remember! I do it because I love it, writing and performing have always been creative outlets and I love to create pieces that resonate with people. One day, I would love for my words to make a difference.

Riley-Fynn (he/him)

A 24 year old writer, poet and artist who currently works in the charity sector. He hopes to use his art to champion marginalised voices, especially around disability and LGBT+ rights, as well as celebrate the healing power of nature and his love of the sea. He currently lives in Brighton with his found family.

Tom McCann (he/him)

I’ve been part of Resonate live spoken word collaborations in Hastings for the last two years. Previously, I worked with Eggtooth alongside the Stephen Lawrence Foundation, creating my own original material as part of an award-winning short film inspired by his story.

Tilia Guilbaud-Walter (she/her)

I am an 18-year-old poet and have been writing since I was about 7 years old. I am currently completing a Level 3 Art & Design course at Hastings College and am going on to study Playwork at University later this year.

Follow Tilia on Instagram at @hazefirepoetry

Or read more on her personal blog