The Upstairs Gallery houses our temporary exhibitions. We look for works that link to Hengistbury Head: whether that be views of the local area, coastal scenes, landscapes, or wildlife.

If you're interested in exhibiting here, take a look at our exhibitor information page.

Current Exhibition

Marylyn Cropley - Planet Earth

30 July 2019 - 12 August 2019 (Dates now extended)

In 2015, local Dorset artist Marylyn Cropley illustrated and self-published a book 'Planet Earth Needs Our Help', to coincide with the Paris Climate Change Conference. This book will take centre-stage in the Upstairs Gallery at Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre in July/August.

Marylyn will be stewarding at the gallery on the 3rd & 4th of August and 9th and 11th August (10am until 12 midday) with Doctor Martin Price (a local environmentalist) and they will both be happy to see you, to answer any questions and mutually share our love and passion for art, creativity and planet earth!

The book

Marylyn's book uses simple, factual information, with bright, colourful illustrations, to portray the magical journey of twins Annie and Tilly after they meet an unhappy fairy in their garden. The story uses accessible language to introduce the complex issues of climate change to young readers. It seeks to portray the possible impact of our actions today on the future health and well-being of the planet and its inhabitants.

Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase a copy of this beautiful book, at the Visitor Centre. It is a not-for-profit project, with 70% of the proceeds going towards the costs of printing and making the book accessible as a free resource for primary schools. 30% of the proceeds will be donated to Hengistbury Head.

Further information

Read Marylyn's message about here exhibition and book here or visit Marylyn's website.

Coming Soon

We have some interesting exhibitions planned for the coming year, we'll list these here as soon as they're finalised - or why not sign up to our mailing list to find out the latest news as soon as we have it?