Residents have their pick of arts events this month with Artists Open Houses, Brighton Festival and Fringe all taking place at different venues citywide. Brighton Museum will be used as a venue for the Artist Open Houses festival for the first time this year, and will showcase work by a range of artists including photographer Fern Hallam.
Fern Hallam, 20, got involved with the museum through the Royal Pavilion & Museum’s partnership programme with The Princes Trust last year. She achieved the bronze award, and went on to complete the gold award with the museum. She has since been offered a place at university.
She said: “I left school without any qualifications because of my anxiety around taking exams. This left me with very little confidence in myself. I had a passion for photography which I wanted to explore but I couldn't cope with going to college. When my connexions worker told me about the bronze arts award course at Brighton museum, we both thought this would be a great way to ease me back into education.
“Going to university is something that I’ve always wanted to do. I didn’t think I’d be able to do it but I managed to find a foundation degree where the entry requirements were a level 3 qualification in photography and a portfolio of work. Thanks to Brighton Museum I have both, and was offered a place at the interview, which I’ve now accepted”.
The exhibition will be on display in the Art room at the museum from Saturday.
Cllr Geoffrey Bowden, Chair of Economic Development & Culture Committee said: “There’s never a dull moment in May with all the fantastic festivals and events going on in Brighton and Hove. I’m amazed by the level and diversity of talent the city produces and showcases. There really is something for everyone and plenty of free events too.”
Notes to Editors
A private viewing of the exhibition will take place on Friday 3 May. If you want to attend, please contact the press office on 01273 291043.