Neil Childs
My work is constructed from a broad range of materials and existing forms. From small-scale pieces to installations and site-specific work. The language of these constructed materials drives the ideas.
The work is an attempt to explore ideas around impermanence, dereliction and the dysfunctional. By implying purpose, function and security. I am then trying to undermine this, in respect of both the individual and institutions.
The constructions imply functionality but frustrate this end, suggesting physical and mental deterioration, they are about memory and ageing, they are about momentary, fleeting insight.
The larger scale work and installations extend these themes of frailty, they are an attempt to investigate broader issues of systemic, institutional failure.
Qualifications
MA Art in Architecture 1996-1997, University of East London
BA (Hons) Fine Art 2:1 1991-1996, Sir John Cass School of Art, London Guildhall University
Current Teaching Experience
Pathway Leader 3D Design Foundation Diploma Art & Design, 2022 - Present Brighton Met College, Brighton
Lecturer Foundation Diploma in Art & Design 2016 - 2022 Eastleigh College, Southampton
Sculpture Lecturer 2012 – 2016, CityLit, London
Visiting Tutor Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (3D/Fine Art) 2011 – 2019 Sussex Downs College
Visiting Tutor Extended Diploma in Art & Design (3D/Photography) 2006 - 2019, Sussex Downs College
Group Exhibitions
Open Call, Phony Collective, May 2024, Hove
Distraction, March-May 2024, St. Augustine's Arts Centre, Brighton
Artsway, August 2017, Lewes Arts Festival, Ringmer
No.90 Artist Open House, May 2017, @Brighton Fringe Festival
CityLit Tutors Exhibition May 2015, CityLit, London
Longitude 50.84 Latitude 0.13, Dec 2014 Circus Street, Brighton
Off/On/Off, Dis-location Group Sept 2012, @Coastal Currents Festival, Hastings
Display Only Dis-location Group, April 2011, The Big Blue Building, Eastbourne
Temporary Arrangement, Jul/Aug 2009, Winchester Club, Kemp Town, Brighton
The Beauty of Holiness Jun 2008, St. Mary de Haura Church, Shoreham by Sea
Selected Works Aug-Oct 2007, Dutton Gregory Solicitors, Southampton
Part Two Jun/Jul 2006, La Viande, London
In Loving Memory May/Jun 2006, Stark Gallery, London
Open House May 2006, Hove Arts, Brighton Festival
Post No Bills South Thames Group Aug 2005, House Gallery, London
Way of the Artist Festival April/May 2005, Brighton
Open Studio May 2005, Hove Arts, Brighton Festival
International Contemporary Surrealism Show Aug 2004, Brighton
Residency Jan-Sep 2004, Brighton Artists Gallery
Disco Jul-Aug 2003, Quay Arts, Newport, IOW
Solo Exhibitions
Wonder & Ruins, April 2025, Gallery 19A, Brighton
You’ll Know When You Get There, November 2012 Rodhus, Brighton
New Work Oct-Nov 2002, Gallery 33, London
Photography June 2002, Putney School of Art and Design
Invisible Cities Oct 1997, Sutton College of Liberal Arts
Publications
Green Places Magazine November 2007 - Public Art Conference Review
Building Cultures: “Can Artists Make Great Places?”
Geraldine Pilgrim Interview – Sussex Style Magazine October 2012
Commissions
Vines Nov 1999, Barnes Wine Merchants, London
Helping Artists Keep Going
Axis is an artist-led charity supporting contemporary visual artists with resources, connection, and visibility.