News Tony Hart Centenary: A Celebration at Creative Maidstone
Creative Maidstone Community Arts Hub is celebrating the centenary of iconic tv artist Tony Hart with a special exhibition, curated by his daughter.
Many know Tony Hart as the face of BBC programmes including ‘Take Hart’, the designer of the original ‘Blue Peter’ badge and the creator of Morph, but this exhibition steps into the artist’s studio: examining the different styles, techniques and inspirations that are quintessentially Tony.
Tony Hart was born in Maidstone on 15 October 1925, and on what would have been the artist’s 100th birthday, Carolyn Ross has carefully selected the display as a retrospective journey through her father’s work.
Speaking about what the artist would think of the exhibition, Carolyn said: “He would be so thrilled, so proud and so pleased that it’s here in Maidstone where he grew up. It is a precious place and it’s lovely to hold this exhibition here.”
Visitors can expect to see original sketches, watercolours, pieces that made it to TV and, perhaps surprisingly, stunning portraiture, including a study of Carolyn, who sat for the painting when she was eight years old.
Held in Creative Maidstone Community Arts Hub, this new centre gives a place for artists and creatives right in the heart of Maidstone town centre. Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) owns the Hub and is proud to exhibit Tony Hart’s work as an opening exhibition after launching earlier in the summer.
Cllr Stephen Thompson, MBC Cabinet Member for Healthier Stronger Communities, added:
It's hugely exciting for us to host this landmark event at our new Arts Hub, taking forward Maidstone's legacy in the creative arts. We're delighted to open with this centenary exhibition of Tony Hart's work, celebrating his wider contribution to our culture.
The free exhibition is open and welcoming to everyone, and will be held at Creative Maidstone until Saturday 8 November 2025. The Hub will be open Mondays to Saturdays, 9am to 5pm. The Creative Maidstone website provides more details about the project, including information about how to rent a creative space, upcoming exhibitions, community events and workshops for all ages.
“Morph” is a registered trademark of Aardman Animations Limited. © Aardman Animations Limited 2025. All rights reserved. Maidstone Borough Council is not affiliated with or endorsed by Aardman Animations Limited. Mention of “Morph” is for editorial purposes only.
“Take Hart” and “Blue Peter” are registered trademarks of BBC Studios. © BBC Studios 2025. All rights reserved. Maidstone Borough Council is not affiliated with or endorsed by BBC Studios. Mentions are for editorial purposes only.