Free exhibition of more than 36 guitars signed by musicians and reimagined as artworks by local artists, with proceeds supporting music therapy in Sussex hospitals.
Brighton Rocks is taking over Helm Gallery from 5 to 11 December, turning a collection of old guitars into a fundraising exhibition. The whole project started with broken and forgotten guitars donated by the public, which local artists then reimagined as artworks. More than 36 of those pieces are on display, each signed by a musician: Nick Cave, Fatboy Slim, Moby, Madness, Mel C, Jessie J and Paris Hilton are among them. The artists behind the work include Hayden Kayes, Chemical X, TBOY, Cassette Lord, George Fox and Mr Dot.
It's not just about the guitars, though. The exhibition shares the experiences of patients, families, therapists and NHS staff, and the money raised goes to music therapy in Sussex hospitals through My Charity, the charity of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, with backing from Brighton promoter JOY. That therapy works with patients dealing with brain injuries, dementia, learning disabilities and neurological conditions. Consultant Neurologist Dr John Young says music can unlock memories and emotions for patients like that, while Music Therapy Co-ordinator Paola O'Sullivan frames the project as asking what role creativity and human connection can play alongside clinical care.
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If you're not just there to look, there's a worldwide online auction running from 4 to 11 December at brighton-rocks.indy.auction/charity, where more than 30 of the unique pieces are being sold. The exhibition itself is free to enter, so you can wander through the gallery at Helm Gallery, 15 North Rd, Brighton BN1 1YA, and see the guitars in the flesh before the auction closes on the 11th.
