New rainbow mural celebrates Brighton & Hove
A multi-coloured mural celebrating Brighton & Hove has been unveiled in Brighton Museum & Art Gallery.
Designed by Brighton-based illustrator Soofiya, the artwork is designed to set residents and visitors musing about why Brighton is such a great city.
Called BRIGHTON AND HOVE IS… the vibrant mural celebrates Brighton & Hove’s rich diversity and culture, featuring multigenerational characters and iconic elements like nature, landmarks, historical buildings and Pride flags. Its bold, colourful palette brings expressive moods and activities to life and invites viewers to explore a story filled with hidden details, offering a playful, “Where’s Wally?” style experience. Speech bubbles add light-hearted commentary on modern social and cultural themes, encouraging reflection on Brighton’s identity.
With its clean, accessible design, the mural is a celebration of community, creativity, and connection and has been installed while major renovation work takes place to the roof of the museum.
Soofiya was awarded the commission following a call out for pitches by Brighton & Hove Museums (B&HM) which attracted over 90 artists, illustrators and creatives responding.
In November, metalworkers Nat Bradwell, known as The Iron Lady and Georgie Sworder installed a nine-metre steel tunnel called Vanishing Forest, exploring the wildlife and nature of Sussex woodland and the effects of climate change on the environment.
A 2019 Condition Survey found the roof of the Museum needed urgent repairs to the Georgian glass lantern above the central main gallery. The work will mean the 20th Century Gallery will be closed for around eight months while the restoration takes place. A crash deck will be erected and each side of the gallery will be shut off to the public by large structural hoarding.
The museum will be open during the work, so B&HM wants to use the space to remain culturally interesting by celebrating working artists.
Artist Soofiya said: “Winning the commission was a great feeling, I love that my work can be showcased at the gallery, especially in a city that I call home. I’m excited to contribute something special to Brighton’s cultural landscape and to bring illustrations to a public space.”
B&HM Kate Turnbull, Head of Marketing, Digital and Communications said: “As a city that thrives on creativity, inclusivity, and diversity, this mural is a vibrant reflection of what makes Brighton & Hove such a special place. We’re delighted to showcase Soofiya’s work, which not only celebrates our community’s spirit but also invites visitors to explore the rich cultural tapestry that defines our city.”