We caught up with JJ Wachter, the founder of Mid Street Lab, to talk about how he’s reshaping the creative landscape in Brighton and why building an inclusive, community-led space for artists isn’t just important, but essential.
Mid Street Lab has become one of Brighton’s most-talked-about grassroots art platforms. What first made you think: “This needs to exist”?
Honestly, I was tired of seeing talented individuals – especially female artists, often working mums, juggling passion and pay checks – being shut out of local galleries. I started listening more closely and realised the lack of spaces that actually respected their voices and gave them real visibility, with the care and support they deserve. In fact, 90% of Brighton’s practising artists and audiences are not in art galleries. So, after nearly two decades in global corporate life, I decided to build something meaningful for the people around me, a happy place where people could connect, be seen and belong. Mid Street Lab was born out of that need, a space where talent and stories matter, whatever your background or budget.
Last spring, the Time Is The Real Currency exhibition felt like a movement, not just a show. What do you hope to change?
You’re right. It was more than just an exhibition. It was a shared moment of clarity, almost a manifesto. We showcased 22 local artists, many showing their work publicly for the first time. But more than that, it was about how we did it: 44 works selected by jury, using data models to remove bias from 147 submissions, judged on theme, versatility and aesthetic. The energy was different, no posturing, no status games, just genuine connection through art. We wanted to prove creative spaces don’t need to be cold, commercial or exclusive. They can be fair, welcoming and full of heart. And I think we did.
You’ve become a strong advocate for grassroots initiatives and one that’s grown out of your work is Brighton Women Artists (BWA) – tell us about that.
That was a beautiful moment. And that ripple effect, for me, is everything. Mid Street Lab provides access, time and collaboration, opening the door for others to run with their own vision. That’s the
whole point: we hold the space to nurture creativity and elevate real people, but it’s what they do with it that really matters. It’s business rooted in care, shared ownership and letting others step forward to lead in their own way. @BWA_Brighton_Woman_Artists is just one of the few programmes born at the lab this spring. There is more to come this summer, such as creative workshops, as well as further features throughout the year.
Looking ahead of your 2026 Biennale Event: what does success look like for Mid Street Lab?
For me, success over the next five years isn’t about going bigger, glossier or more commercial. It’s about staying true to what Mid Street Lab was built for: access, fairness, collaboration and care. I want to see Brighton filled with spaces where working artists and young creatives feel seen, paid properly and supported, with no gatekeeping or unnecessary labels.
The Biennale project is part of that vision: a platform that connects grassroots talent with institutions, building real career pathways and cultural bridges. If we’re still creating places where people can connect, experiment, and belong – and if we’re inspiring others to do the same – that’s what success looks like.
And yes, we are expanding. With our new Hove space on the way, we’re ready to champion Brighton’s visual creatives and shape the city’s artistic future. We’re calling on emerging collectors, patrons and partners: let’s make it happen, together. Get in touch!
