The central gallery at the Brighton and Hove Museum and Art Gallery has officially reopened after an extensive 18-month closure and a comprehensive $2.5 million upgrade. The East Sussex gallery had been shuttered since 2024 to allow for critical roof repairs and infrastructure improvements to the Grade II listed building.
The gallery's grand reopening on Saturday features a groundbreaking new exhibition titled "Passion, Power & Protest," which explores how these powerful themes serve as driving forces behind artistic creativity. The exhibition presents an eclectic mix of artwork that spans different eras and movements, including pieces created specifically for Brighton's annual Pride event, protest banners from Black Lives Matter demonstrations, and works by renowned surrealist artist Salvador Dali.
One of the exhibition's centerpiece attractions is a distinctive sofa designed by Salvador Dali, representing one of five couches he created in 1973 based on the iconic lips of actress Mae West. This unique piece exemplifies the surrealist movement's bold approach to transforming everyday objects into extraordinary art. The inclusion of contemporary protest materials alongside classic artworks demonstrates the museum's commitment to bridging historical and modern expressions of social activism.
Museum Chief Executive Officer Hedley Swain emphasized the exhibition's relevance to current social issues, stating, "Passion, Power & Protest explores some of the most pressing questions in society today: who holds power, what do we care about, and how can we create change?" This approach reflects the institution's dedication to presenting art as a catalyst for social dialogue and reflection.
Hazel Edwards, the South East Area Director for Arts Council England, praised the museum's vision, adding, "Passion, Power & Protest is a powerful reopening exhibition that reflects the museum's commitment to telling inclusive, challenging, and inspiring stories." The exhibition showcases protest signs created specifically for the Black Lives Matter movement, highlighting the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice.
The substantial renovation project was made possible through a collaborative funding effort between Arts Council England, which provided nearly $1.9 million, and Brighton & Hove City Council, which contributed $625,000. These improvements have significantly enhanced the building's ventilation systems, insulation, lighting infrastructure, and overall energy efficiency, ensuring the facility meets modern conservation standards while preserving its historical character.
The reopening marks a significant milestone for Brighton's cultural landscape, as the museum continues to serve as a vital hub for artistic expression and community engagement. The "Passion, Power & Protest" exhibition represents the institution's evolving mission to present diverse perspectives and foster meaningful conversations about art's role in social change and cultural identity.
