A sketch using Inktense pencils

Fancying a refreshing sea breeze, a dose of English seaside nostalgia and something arty to look at, I visited the Brighton Art Fair on Saturday. Brighton was full of trippers hoping to catch the last glimpse of sunshine; some even took to sitting in deckchairs on the beach (fully clothed) and gazing wistfully at the grey horizon line. The sun remained behind grey clouds, but it was an enjoyable visit and I managed to do a few sketches.

This is the first time I’ve visited the Brighton Art Fair, not knowing that it even existed before a few months ago. The standard of art exhibited was very high and it was a enjoyable way to spend a few hours pondering on whether to invest in something for the living room wall. The artist I liked most (and there were many I liked) was Sarah Young. I love anything that has a mythical theme (her collection included winged horses and minotaurs) and especially collagraphs (a type of printing technique that gives an interesting textured result). Other artists I really liked included Judy Dwyer, who made felt animals and dolls displayed in glass cases and Frances Doherty who made organic forms in ceramic. The Brighton Art Fair takes place every year in the Corn Exchange, usually in September. Artists who are interested in exhibiting there can enter to be selected by a panel. The fair lasts for three days and costs roughly £300 to exhibit. There is also a credit card and wrapping service. You can see more details at www.brightonartfair.co.uk

Brighton Pavilion

Other things to see or do in Brighton: the Brighton Pavilion (the Prince Regent’s extravagant residence); Brighton Pier (the original pier can be seen nearby slowly crumbling into the sea) and walks along the beach or promenade or through The Lanes (lots of small shops, cafes and pubs).

Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier