Public Sculpture

This is our initiative to introduce more public sculpture in Hove, through a revival of the Victorian tradition of art by public subscription.

Hove has some impressive examples of Victorian monument but very little public sculpture has been added in recent times.  Hove Civic Society is setting about to change this. We think public art can play a major role in enhancing the urban environment and would like to see contemporary sculpture as part of Hove’s street life and seafront vistas.  With public money being tight, we aim to fund the campaign from donations by both the public and local businesses.

Jaume Plensa's scuplture 'Dream' in St Helens
'Dream' by Jaume Plensa, www.pmsa.org.uk

Our vision for public sculpture in Hove includes

  • Engagement - evoking a response of surprise and delight from residents and visitors
  • Bringing to life history and the character of Hove
  • Connecting with the sea and the seafront promenade
  • Linking in with Brighton & Hove Festivals and Artists Open Houses
  • An ongoing programme which could include both permanent and changing installations, including a ‘Hove Plinth’ and a variety of sites

A small steering group of Hove Civic Society members and specially invited participants are driving the initiative. The group is convened by Karin Janzon (Hove Civic Society committee member) and also include Jill and Peter Seddon (Brighton University and Sussex Public Sculpture Recording Project), Hazel Reeves (Sculptor) and Mike Daniels (Hove Arts). We are liaising with the city council and have made some inspiring visits to sculpture parks in the region.

Our initial proposal is to install a specially commissioned ‘Hove Plinth’ on a prominent site which would be used for ongoing temporary displays of sculptures. The works would be sourced through loans from major sculpture foundations, collaboration with local arts and heritage organisations and specially commissioned work.  We will also be identifying a variety of sites across Hove that may be suitable for public sculpture in the future.

For more information about this initiative, or if you wish to donate funds, please contact Karin Janzon, email: karin.janzon1@gmail.com Tel: 07917 888997

Media coverage (external link):

The Argus (February 2012).