Brighton Station scaffolding becomes public photo gallery as competition opens for permanent mural

The scaffolding opposite Brighton Station has been turned into a revolving outdoor photo gallery showcasing local photographers, and a competition has opened to design a permanent mural for the wall behind it.

Brighton property company Matsim has teamed up with Brighton-headquartered MPB, the global platform for buying, selling and trading used photo and video kit, and advertising partner blowup media on the project.

The outdoor photography series will be displayed on the scaffold shroud for several weeks, giving thousands of daily commuters, visitors and residents a taste of the city's local lens talent. The first installation went up on 22 October.

Behind the shroud, work is under way on a permanent mural for the prominent, station-facing north elevation of The Queens Head pub. The wall, which has long been blighted by tagging, will greet the more than 15 million people who use the station each year. The aim is to turn it into a striking piece of public art and a more attractive welcome for visitors as they step out of the station.

Brighton has long been celebrated for its creativity, from its independent artists and photographers to its street art, festivals and live music. The joint initiative aims to reclaim the space and put the city's creative talent in front of the people who pass through and live in Brighton every day. Matsim and MPB are encouraging artists of all levels, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic amateurs, to put forward their vision for the station's next permanent landmark.

The launch of the scaffolding gallery coincides with Brighton Photo Fringe, which runs across the city until 31 October.

How to enter: artists should email their mural designs to [email protected] by 27 November. Further information is available at www.brightonstationmural.co.uk.