Vanessa Marr is a lecturer at the University of Brighton. She is responsible for the Women and Domesticity – What’s your Perspective? project at the University’s Grand Parade site.

What is your favourite place in Sussex?

The De La Warr Pavilion, which includes the space outside along the seafront. It’s great to see a creative space championing exhibitions of graphic design as well as art. Even better for me, it’s just down the road.

What do you love most about living in Sussex?

The beach. I’ve never lived by the coast before but can’t imagine moving away from it now. All that water and space is so calming.

What advice do you have for your 12-year-old self?

Believe in yourself and don’t let anyone push you around.

What is your most valued possession?

Probably the teddy bear I had as a baby; he’s almost completely bald but I’ve managed not to lose him despite numerous house moves.

What is your biggest regret?

I made some pretty stupid decisions in my teens.

What is your biggest fear?

Losing the use of my eyes or hands – I can’t imagine not being able to make things.

What is your proudest achievement?

Obviously my four daughters, after that probably studying for my BA, PGCE and MA whilst they were small and running my own business with my partner David. I’m also really happy with where I am creatively and in my career right now.

Which five people (living or dead) would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?

Virginia Woolf, Louise Bourgeois, Carol Ann-Duffy, my granny (who passed away 20 years ago but I still miss her) and Denzel Washington (don’t ask).

Anything else?

Fabula Collective currently has an exhibition called Many Ways to Tell a Story at the Hove Museum and Art Gallery, which includes work from each member exploring narrative in many different guises. We are also running a drawing event, Many Ways To Draw A Story, this month inviting people to respond through drawing to the exhibition and the museum collection. See fabulacollective.com.