I have made some work for a show in Brighton; Framed a show based in a number of shop windows in unconventional places around Brighton; such as restaurants/ cafes/shops.
The event is organised by Pop-Up Brighton. Due to the lack of space and really expensive rates to hire, it is unfortunately a lot harder to exhibit work than in Nottingham, where there is an abundance of space and a helluva lot of art funding, so as a result you have to look outside the box, i.e if you want a blank space with white walls and nice nondescript cement flooring you're in the wrong place. It is a shame really, the city is packed full of creative minds, so many whom I have spoken to who want to get involved with projects and opportunities, but as far as the Arts Council is concerned Brighton is 'arty enough' and doesn't need any funding. Which is bullshit of course, there is only a couple of non-commercial galleries in the city, all the while there are empty shops and potential galleries on every street! Maybe it has something to do with the way Brighton Uni runs it's fine at courses- because the way I see it, there is a real creative buzz, but it just doesn't feel like the kind of contemporary art culture that you have in Nottingham or London or any fucking city where there is arts council funding, Fine Art courses and a huge network. Maybe I am just totally out of the loop, which I probably am, but I damn well miss the vibe in Nottingham, it felt like there were so many opportunities available, where as Brighton feels like, unless you're putting on a gig night or make electronic music you'd might as well fuck off back to where you came from as there isnt the space for you. I mean someone tell me I'm WRONG! I WANT to be wrong, but it does feel like a tricky environment to break into. That aside it is such a rad place, so diverse and non-conformist, I just need to break down this wall and find my way, or find some really rich property mogul and convince him to give me some $$$.
Anyway The show ends on Wednesday and there is a closing party and silent auction of the work at Hen on Trafalgar Street.
Homemaker 1-7 Series. pages 46
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