36 Views of Sussex Heights - Photo exhibition launch party

Artists Emily and Ed Hepburne Scott were here to celebrate the launch of their photo show 36 Views of Sussex Heights.

Sussex Heights is a residential tower block in the centre of Brighton designed by Richard Seifert and built between 1966 and 1968, it rises to 334 feet (102 m)—making it the tallest building in the town and one of the tallest residential buildings on the south coast of England.

 Emily began to notice Sussex Heights because of its continuous shifting colours and altered appearance. Although a simple white building it reflects and contrasts with its surroundings depending on the time of day, season or weather. Ed had lived on the south side of 15th floor as a student in 1995 so has since had a connection with the building. The more they observed it, the more it seemed to appear as constant backdrop for Brighton. From Devils Dyke it clearly towers above the other buildings surrounding it and travelling along the A27 the view of Brighton emerges below the South Downs.  

When Emily and Ed started to document the building using photography they began to make a connection between some of the images and Hokusai’s ‘Views of Mount Fuji’. He illustrates the Mountain from diverse viewpoints and also various times of day and seasons. Although tempted to transcribe his prints into photographs they used his prints as a way to reflect upon and develop ideas for capturing photographic images of Sussex Heights.

Hokusai completed his 36 views of Mount Fuji in 1833. They were horizontal in format and dedicated to landscape with Mount Fuji as the Central theme.  Emily and Ed too have used the horizontal framing and chosen 36 Views of Sussex Heights as the inspiration and format for this exhibition.

There was a great crowd on the night so thanks to all who made it along. Thanks to Katariina http://www.lighttrick.co.uk/ for taking photos of the event.

Prints are for sale at Hotel Pelirocco for more information please email info@hotelpelirocco.co.uk