The Presence of Absence: An upholsterer, a contemporary surrealist, a painter and a photographer will come together for a two-week interactive exhibition at Brighton’s Regency Townhouse in September 2026.

“Your absence is a presence. Who knew an empty space could take up so much room.” Jacqueline Simon Gunn

It began with an empty chair, that holds the narrative of those who once sat in it and the comfort or pain that represents; that the absence of someone is as real and as meaningful as their presence. At the heart of this exhibition are 4 vintage chairs; a collaboration between Frances Bloomfield and Emily Beaumont. The chairs will explore the concepts of memory,
healing, secrets and retreat.

“A chair replaces the presence of someone by holding their absence.” Doris Salcedo

“Influenced by Jean-Paul Sartre’s study on Being and Nothingness, we wanted to explore the concept that absence is a very real and substantial being.” Frances Bloomfield

Jo Hathaway’s work on memory and reflection bring colour and light and the internal, abstract experience of the theme; Nick Bowman’s photographs each tell their own story of light, nature and the impact of revelation and obscurity, alongside additional work by Frances Bloomfield and Emily Beaumont. The exhibition invites you to be part of the visual conversation between the artists, about how to interpret individual experiences of the past, present and future through the space we leave behind and the memories it holds of us – whether it involves happiness, sadness, joy, loss, beauty, grief or hope. Viewers are encouraged to be actively involved by discovering secrets concealed around the space and by leaving their own memories and experiences which will become part of the exhibition.

“What we are trying to do is to explore how everyday objects can directly impact on our lives and help us to navigate our future and consider the huge gaps that we all leave behind, no matter who or where we are.”