2021 Brighton and Hove Calendar to help artists after coronavirus

The Brighton and Hove calendar was originally created by photographer and designer Nigel Swallow in 2000, who put a call-out for photos capturing the spirit of the city.

The calendar was first sold from a fly pitch outside an empty funeral parlour in Kensington Gardens and editions sold out in six weeks. It has been a popular Christmas present for Brightonians for the past 20 years.

But this year art collective Art Hoc has taken over production of the calendar and money raised through its sales will support a range of artists.

Brighton Pride by Simon Dack, one of the photos in the 2021 calendar

Art Hoc founder and photographer Petrusco Petruscioni said: “Nigel is working on new projects and a photography book so from 2020 onwards the calendar is being produced by Art Hoc, a community interest company.

“All the profits from the sale of the calendar will go back to the local art scene.

“Our 2021 edition has an abundance of stunning images from more than 30 local photographers.

“This year we’re not just focusing on pretty pictures or eye-pleasing moments but also on the local people and groups who make Brighton what it is – progressive, sometimes weird and definitely a wonderful city.”

Burning the Clocks, by John White

Petrusco hopes to help a range of artists through sales of the calendar, including painters, sculptors and photographers who make up the Art Hoc community.

He said: “Eventually I want to organise a big group show for all the artists involved. We plan to do workshops, classes and proper exhibitions.

“We’ve had good feedback on the calendar already and we really want to promote the artists.

“It’s been a very challenging year as there’s been no live events and not a lot of support available.

Grow your Own volunteers at Fork and Dig, by Petrusco Petruscioni

“We’re really keen to support our artists by giving them exposure, organising exhibitions when we can and by giving out small grants.

“We’re also doing our best to cheer people up after a tough year. Hopefully the 2021 calendar will make people smile.”

The calendar is available to buy from Brighton Photography Gallery in King’s Road Arches, at City Books in Western Road and online at www.brightoncalendar.com.

Art Hoc also plans to have a seasonal stall in Kensington Gardens outside the Wai Kika Moo Kau cafe next month, after lockdown restrictions are eased.