Brighton has no shortage of performing arts events all year around, however, something is lacking in terms of visual arts and spaces in the city. Relatively speaking, there are only a few decent galleries, exhibition spaces or major visual arts events (compared to amounts of artists trying to sell their work) . Sarah Gillings, a local resident, has launched ‘I Love Art’ - a brand to promote artists across the city.

With the economy still nervous and savers not getting any return on their capital, those who are lucky enough to have spare cash are looking for alternative ways to invest. If bought wisely, art is considered to give a good long-term return. Sarah has so far used her skills acquired in her branding & marketing background with International corps such as Disney and McCann Erickson not only try and get local artists noticed but during her Open House she hosted in May, analyse footfall and what people spent their money on.(and who these people actually are).

Artists Open Houses is one of the biggest events for visual arts and crafts in Brighton & Hove, however by Sarah’s own research and speaking to different artists she estimates takings could have been down by 1/3 on the previous year. “This could be a sign of the recession but also I feel that people don’t come ready to buy,” says Sarah, “I think many of the visitors to the Open Houses think that art is going to be expensive but the range of local talent on offer ranged from postcards at 50p upwards.“ Investing in art can be seen as a bit of a luxury but try telling that to the artists whose handiwork is their main source of income. It is an industry just like any others. Sarah reiterates how artists contribute to the community, ‘”They purchase art supplies, support printing companies and rent studio space. Above all visual art shows attract visitors to the city.”.

For up and coming artists, getting noticed can be a struggle. Galleries take a significant cut of any work sold in an exhibition which often messes around with the economics of art in order to make money (in some cases inflating prices of pieces up to an extra 50%). Also, the elitist culture surrounding the high end of the market can put people off buying. This is where Sarah wants to make art accessible to all. She is currently collaborating with private investors as well as trying to secure public cash and we have to ‘watch this space‘ for the developments. As well as championing local artists , Sarah wants to offer a representation service where she will coach artists in the basics of marketing in workshops. She‘s trying to develop a network of artists, all supporting one another.

This sounds like a lot of work, so I what’s in it for her, I ask? She has commuted all over the UK and overseas in the past, and having to go as far as The Middle East for work last year (leaving my children) regularly when there is so much raw talent here is not only bad for my carbon footprint, as a parent it can be very draining. “I can finally do something I’m passionate about but also live, work and support my local community, most importantly- my kids can also be a real part of what I am trying to achieve.” she says, “I would like to place Brighton Arts in the spotlight outside of our city, as promoting visual arts to the wider audience can create a sustainable income for many talented artists who call Brighton home.”. This is how the Invest in Art campaign started. The arts are being recognised more and more through Government initiatives as viable regenerative business. “I am trying to help artists help them selves, whilst promoting the umbrella brand of I Love Art.” Sarah states.

Join the Facebook group to get news on up and coming events or artists: I Love Art- Brighton http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=276409042990&ref=ts Follow Iloveartuk on Twitter: @iloveartuk