In 2019, I embarked on a special collaboration with Billy's on the Beach café at Bracklesham Bay. As a Birdham-based landscape and coastal artist, I've long been drawn to the Sussex coastline, but this partnership was particularly meaningful. It resulted in a painting that not only captured the essence of this beloved coastal spot but also raised funds for the RNLI in Selsey.
A Regular Haunt for Inspiration
Billy's on the Beach has long been a favourite stop for me and my family. I would often visit while painting this stunning coastline stretching from Bracklesham to West Wittering. As I told Sussex Life magazine, "Billy's is where my family always comes to hang out because it's lovely and is the closest café to the beach."
The collaboration began when one of the staff at Billy's asked if I would be interested in painting the café itself. I decided to give it a go, I remember thinking. "It was the first time I had actually put a building into any of my paintings."
From Canvas to Postcard
What made this project particularly special was its charitable dimension. We transformed the painting into postcards with all proceeds going to the RNLI in Selsey. The initiative proved remarkably successful, and I was thrilled when the postcards raised significant funds to support the vital work of the lifeboat station.
I believe "the RNLI is wonderful—it's crazy that they have to rely on donations, given that they have saved so many lives." The postcards became so popular that we needed to produce another 1,000 after the initial batch nearly sold out.
My Love for Sussex Coastlines
I’ve painted coastlines in Scotland and Norfolk, I find particular inspiration in the Sussex coastline. My dramatic seascapes aim to capture the detail of the coastline's sand dunes at East Head and Holkham and the ever-changing drama of sea and movement.
"There is something unique about Sussex, especially all around Chichester, Pagham and West Wittering," as I often say. "There's a detailed beauty to the coastline and you're never too far away from the sea, plus there's the River Arun and Chichester Harbour too."
HAS THIS INSPIRED YOU?
Are you a coastal business, charity, or organisation interested in collaborating on a similar project? My experience with Billy's on the Beach and the RNLI shows how art can create meaningful connections and support important causes. I would love to discuss potential partnerships.
