A major new exhibition at Towner Eastbourne offers students a unique opportunity to explore the radical creativity that has shaped the region – and the University of Sussex itself. 

Sussex Modernism, open now until 28 September 2025, showcases the bold and often rebellious art, literature and ideas that emerged from Sussex in the early 20th century. Curated by Dr Hope Wolf, Senior Lecturer in Modern Literature and Co-Director of the Centre for Modernist Studies at Sussex, the exhibition is based on her newly published book, Sussex Modernism (Yale University Press, 2025). 

At the heart of the exhibition is Day’s Rest, Day’s Work – a vast mural created in 1960 by British artist Ivon Hitchens, who lived and worked in West Sussex. Originally painted for the University’s first Vice-Chancellor, John Fulton, the mural was installed in Sussex House, where it remained until the 1980s. Now on public display for the first time in decades, it captures the rhythm and balance of labour and rest in the Sussex landscape. 

The mural was also selected as one of the University’s 60 Objects for 60 Years, marking its significance to the institution’s story and artistic heritage.  

Dr Wolf said about the exhibition: "I have been working on the Sussex Modernism project for a long while. When I started, I knew about the famous groupings, but I have since found out so much more by spending time in many archives and regional collections. I am now telling a new story which stretches from the late 19th century to now." 

The exhibition also features work by major figures including Vanessa Bell, Roland Penrose and Eric Gill, exploring how Sussex became a hub for experimentation, refuge, and radical thinking. Through paintings, sculptures, photography and personal writings, it tells the story of a place that inspired new ways of seeing and living. 

Planning Your Visit 

Towner Eastbourne is a contemporary art gallery just 45 minutes from Brighton by train, or a scenic bus ride along the coast on the 12X service. The gallery is free to enter, and under 25s go free to all exhibitions – making it an ideal summer day trip for Sussex students. 

Towner Eastbourne, Devonshire Park, College Road, Eastbourne BN21 4JJ 
Train: Direct from Brighton to Eastbourne (approx. 45 mins–1 hour) 
Bus: Take the 12X from Brighton to Eastbourne 
Exhibition info: https://townereastbourne.org.uk/whats-on/sussex-modernism 
Travel info: https://www.buses.co.uk/services/BH/12 

Whether you're studying modern literature, art history, or simply want to see how Sussex has inspired generations of artists and thinkers, this exhibition is a chance to see your local landscape – and your university – in a new light.