History of Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is a beautiful 19th century listed building set in the heart of the city’s cultural quarter.
The building was originally King George IV’s magnificent stable complex and now includes the Brighton Dome concert hall.
The museum houses one of the most important and eclectic collections outside national institutions.
The local connection
Brighton Museum was founded by local brewer and social reformer Henry Willett. He was an avid collector of pottery and porcelain and Mr Willett’s Popular Pottery showcases his collection.
This foundation of local generosity and participation has continued over the years with many donations and legacies from local residents.
Today personal accounts and oral histories in many of the galleries are a way of encouraging local residents to stay involved. Museum staff continue to work with community groups to broaden access to its collections and services.
A 21st century facelift
Following a £10 million redevelopment, Brighton Museum & Art Gallery reopened in May 2002 with a complete redisplay of its rich and diverse collections.
Dynamic and innovative new galleries provide greatly improved access to the museum’s nationally and locally important collections. Objects are displayed in stimulating contexts with a wide range of interpretative techniques including the latest interactive information technology.
Other new facilities include
- the museum entrance in the Royal Pavilion gardens with a spacious foyer and shop
- improved disabled access
- new education facilities with an art room and a dedicated education pavilion
Rich in collections
The World Art collection is one of the finest in the country with artefacts dating back two millennia.
The Fine Art collection contains some 2,000 paintings – almost as many as the National Gallery.
The Fashion gallery celebrates centuries of style from Regency to Biba.
Images of Brighton and Exploring Brighton galleries present both the traditional and unconventional aspects of the city’s rich and colourful history through audio, film, artefacts, local ephemera and imagery.
Performance takes an indulgent look at performance from all over the world and Body explores how cultures have defined and redefined their bodies through the centuries.
A focal point for local research
Brighton History Centre is a focal point for the museum’s complete catalogue of collections. Located on the upper floor of the museum, there are many resources and research materials available for exploring and researching local and family history.
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