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Transforming shared spaces and sparking conversation – the role of art on our campus
By: Maddie Appleby
Last updated: Friday, 23 May 2025
We are commissioning a new public artwork on our West Slope development, continuing a rich tradition of art on campus.
A distinctive campus
The original University of Sussex campus was designed by renowned architect Sir Basil Spence. Featuring reflective moats, vaulted arches and courtyards, several buildings are recognised for their architectural significance as Listed buildings and are artworks in their own right.
Beyond our buildings, campus landscape architect, Dame Sylvia Crowe, believed that the space between the buildings was as important as the buildings themselves, and her legacy surrounds us in our tree lines and use of soft landscaping.
Public art at Sussex
Our campus buildings and grounds are designed to enrich the lived environment and honour the natural world, and public art further enhances its distinctive character. Paintings, murals, sculptures - and more - adorn walls, lawns and courtyards, creating a sense of belonging and enhancing the overall ambience and experience of campus.
Sussex is proud of its tradition of public artworks – from permanent installations, to hosting touring exhibits, to the commissioning of new works, public art is part of our past, present and future. With a new artwork being commissioned on our West Slope development, we continue to place great value in the role of art in our community.
Dr Joanna Pawlik, Senior Lecturer in Art History and Head of Department for Art History at Sussex, said: ‘Public artworks enrich our surroundings, transform shared spaces, broaden access to art, and spark conversation within communities.
Commissioning this new public artwork is both a reflection and a driver of the University of Sussex's commitment to culture, creativity, and community, and their vital role in our future.’
West Slope public art
Want to share your thoughts on our next public artwork on campus? Visit our display in the Library until Sunday 1 June, to see the early concept designs by five shortlisted artists.
All feedback will be collated and shared with a panel of representatives from the University and Brighton & Hove City Council before a final concept design is selected and worked into a final design.