Folkestone Triennial 2025
đź“… 19th of July - 19th of October 2025 đź“Ť All around Folkestone - and it's FREE!
What You’ll Discover at the Folkestone Triennial 2025…
This summer, the town becomes a unique open-air gallery, with world-class artworks appearing in parks, streets, on the cliffs, and by the sea. You’ll find monumental sculpture, immersive sound, film, architecture, and even art you can taste.
Walk out along the Harbour Arm to see Dorothy Cross’s striking carved marble feet, a powerful reflection on movement and memory. Step inside Emeka Ogboh’s sound tunnel beneath the cliffs, then try bespoke Triennial ice cream. Discover Afterlife by Katie Paterson, hundreds of delicate amulets cast from extraordinary materials like deep-sea plastic and meteorite dust.
From giant seabirds and surreal playgrounds to subtle installations tucked into unexpected places, the Triennial invites you to look, and think, differently about the land around you.
Curated by Sorcha Carey, this year’s theme, “How Lies the Land?”, invites you to explore the stories and histories that shape our landscape; from deep time and ancient migration to climate change and local identity.
You’ll encounter thought-provoking works by 18 international artists, each responding to the town’s location, past, and present.
Sorcha Carey, who was previously the director of Edinburgh Art Festival and is now the Director of Collective explains:
“In digging into the soil, I’m interested to think about how some of Folkestone’s deep histories can offer a space to reflect on contemporary concerns: from migration to the climate crisis, from how we form communities to our relationship to landscape. To think of the deep past depends on a leap of the imagination.
The triennial invites artists to respond to the place and context of Folkestone, to reflect on human connections to and with the land, and out of the deep past to imagine new futures.”
Explore at Your Own Pace…
The Folkestone Triennial is designed for you to explore however you like. Walk the route independently using the official map and guide, or join a guided tour led by artists and local creatives for insider perspectives.
Most artworks are outdoors and free to access at any time, with no ticket required.
Make the Most of Your Visit…
As you follow the Triennial trail, you’ll experience more than just art. Folkestone’s vibrant Creative Quarter, independent shops, harbourfront cafĂ©s and beautiful coastal views make it a perfect place to spend the day – or the weekend.
While you’re here, don’t miss the permanent Creative Folkestone Artworks collection which consists of 82 contemporary pieces installed throughout the town year-round.
Whether you’re visiting for the afternoon or staying for longer, there’s plenty to see, do and discover. Plan your visit today.
