Fundraiser launched to bring exhibition celebrating queer joy to Brighton seafront

Local photographer Chris Jepson has launched a fundraiser to help bring a striking new exhibition celebrating queer joy to Brighton seafront in February 2026 as part of LGBTQ+ History Month. Project Uncut brings together portraits and personal stories from more than 50 LGBTQ+ individuals, each speaking openly about the moments that make them feel grounded, loved and free.

The outdoor gallery will be installed next to the Brighton i360, offering thousands of visitors the chance to engage with real-life stories in a free and accessible setting. The exhibition is composed of nine square stone gabions, creating 36 display surfaces for large-format portraits and accompanying narratives. Each image is paired with words from the subject themselves, representing a diverse mix of ages, identities and backgrounds - a vivid snapshot of queer life today.

Chris Jepson, the award-winning Brighton-based artist behind the project, has spent more than three decades documenting LGBTQ+ communities. He said: "This series sits within my long-term work documenting LGBTQ+ lives. Previous projects include The Identity Project and Beyond the Binary. Those projects gave people space to share their experiences and helped shift how queer lives are seen.

"Project Uncut takes the next step by focusing on joy. You meet people who talk about friendship, love, gender freedom, self-acceptance and the moments that help them feel grounded and whole.

"Each portrait is paired with a personal story in the subject’s own words portraying a broad mix of ages, identities and backgrounds – a true snapshot of queer lived reality today."

To ensure the stories reach beyond the seafront, a limited-edition, full-colour zine will accompany the exhibition, featuring every portrait and personal account. Supporters of the project can pledge through Kickstarter to help fund large-format printing, weatherproof mounting, zine production and participant expenses, ensuring the work remains accessible to all.

The crowdfunding campaign runs until 9 January 2026, with the exhibition scheduled to open in early February. Backers can choose from a range of rewards, including signed zines, limited-edition prints, invitations to the private launch at the Brighton i360 and even a personal portrait session with Chris.

By supporting Project Uncut, donors help bring authentic queer stories into public view, creating a lasting record of joy and resilience at a time when visibility still matters.