Moulsecoomb Garden to feature in photography exhibition

Moulsecoomb Forest Garden took over a derelict strip of council land in 1994 just outside Brighton in an area of deprivation.

The project has become an important green space in the area, allowing people to connect with nature through gardening.

It offers support to young people who struggle in a classroom setting through outdoor activities and lessons within the national curriculum, as well as eco-therapy.

Particular attention is also paid to young people with learning difficulties such as autistic spectrum disorder, dyslexia and ADHD.

The project has been running for 30 years (Image: Becky Warnock with Moulsecoomb Forest Garden) Now gardeners have worked alongside artist Becky Warnock to create two new photography exhibitions called When the Seeds Fall.

Becky said: “This garden is a precious space where people come together and are accepted and cherished as individuals.

“The project has encouraged me to think about the connection between collective wellbeing and nature.

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“It’s rooted in the understanding that mental health, like physical health, fluctuates continuously and requires upkeep, just like a garden needs care and nurture.”

Warren Carter, project manager at Moulsecoomb Forest Garden, said: “This project has been a joy for us to work on and we’re delighted the exhibitions will connect so many people with what we do and hopefully inspire others to get outdoors and close up with nature.”

The garden strives to connect people with nature (Image: Becky Warnock with Moulsecoomb Forest Garden) City councillor Leslie Pumm, cabinet member for communities, equalities and human rights, said: “Over the past 30 years, the Moulsecoomb Forest Garden has supported hundreds of local people, connecting them with gardening, food and nature.

“I’m delighted that, through our shared prosperity fund, we have been able to support this exciting photography exhibition and showcase the wonderful work of this important community project.”

The exhibitions will appear at Moulsecoomb Railway Station and Brighton seafront on October 8 for six weeks.

They were commissioned by photography charity Photo Fringe as well as the council’s shared prosperity fund and will form part of Photo Fringe’s festival, spanning Brighton, Sussex and Portsmouth.

Photo Fringe festival director Claire Wearn said: “The theme for our upcoming festival is Common Ground and this project chimes so perfectly with it.

“Finding common ground is a starting point for positive change and just like photography, it can bridge divides, challenge stereotypes and create space for collaboration and connection.”