A stunning new portrait of Brighton & Hove Mayor Councillor Mohammed Asaduzzaman has been unveiled at Brighton Town Hall.
The portrait has been created by Lucy Dixon, a local art student studying for a fine art MA at the University of Brighton.
Lucy was commissioned as part of a unique partnership with the University of Brighton’s School of Arts and Media, which aims to diversify the civic art collection to reflect the city.
Lucy said: “As a mixed media artist, I was excited to take on this commission. I aimed to create a modern composition with a traditional foreground, using classic colours to reflect the brightness and energy of the city.”
The portrait will be framed and hang outside the council chamber alongside portraits of past mayors.
Cllr Asaduzzaman is the city’s first South Asian Muslim Mayor and, during his year in office, has played a major role in promoting and strengthening the council’s commitment to tolerance, diversity and inclusion, eradicating hate and building bridges.
Last November he visited the university to present the opportunity to art students and highlight the importance of creative subjects to the city.
“I had the great pleasure of spending time with Lucy as she explored not only my own story, but also the civic history of our city," he said.
“Her ability to capture that connection between past and present is truly inspiring.
“Lucy brings a fresh perspective and incredible skill to this portrait. Although she is not yet a household name, I suspect she soon will be.
“I truly hope this initiative continues – bringing more original art into our civic buildings and offering more opportunities for emerging artists to leave their mark on the city.”
Council Leader Bella Sankey added: “Brighton & Hove is a city defined by its reputation for inclusion – a city where diversity and individuality are not just celebrated but form the very fabric of our identity.
“It is only right, therefore, that our civic art reflects the rich tapestry of stories and experiences that shape our community.
“This portrait represents a bold and imaginative reimagining of a long-standing tradition. It bridges the formal legacy of mayoral portraiture with a modern sensibility – honouring our history while also reflecting the contemporary spirit of Brighton & Hove.”
