Guitars signed by music legends to go on display in Brighton to raise money for NHS music therapy

More than 36 guitars transformed into unique works of art are set to go on display in Brighton this December, as musicians, artists and the NHS come together to explore the healing power of music.

The Brighton Rocks exhibition will feature guitars created by leading artists, alongside instruments featuring the signatures and support of international music stars including Moby, Madness, Nick Cave, Fatboy Slim, Evanescence and Jessie J.

Taking place at Helm Gallery in Brighton from 5 to 11 December 2026, the exhibition aims to raise funds for music therapy services at hospitals across Sussex.

Supported by South East live music promoter Joy Concerts, the project has seen guitars donated by members of the public transformed into striking pieces of contemporary art.

Artists involved include Hayden Kayes, Chemical X, TBOY, Cassette Lord, George Fox, Elizabeth Eade and Braille artist Mr Dot.

The collection will eventually be offered through a worldwide online auction, giving music fans and art collectors the opportunity to own one of the specially created instruments while supporting local NHS services.

However, organisers say Brighton Rocks is about much more than collecting artwork or celebrating famous musicians.

The exhibition seeks to highlight the important role music can play in supporting patients recovering from illness, living with neurological conditions or receiving ongoing medical treatment.

Money raised will support music therapy within University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, helping patients and their families benefit from creative activities alongside conventional healthcare.

Organisers hope the exhibition will encourage conversations about how music, creativity and human connection can contribute to recovery and emotional wellbeing.

Dr John Young, Consultant Neurologist at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Music can support recovery in many different ways. For people living with brain injuries, dementia, learning disabilities or neurological conditions, music can unlock memories, emotions and connections that may otherwise be difficult to access.

"Music therapy is an incredibly valuable part of patient care, providing opportunities and benefits that would not otherwise be available on the ward."

Paola O'Sullivan, Music Therapy Co-ordinator, said the exhibition would highlight an often overlooked aspect of patient care.

She said: "We rightly spend a great deal of time focusing on what medicine can do for patients. Brighton Rocks gives us the opportunity to ask another important question: what role can music, creativity and human connection play alongside that care?"

The project also places the experiences of patients, therapists, NHS staff and families at its centre, sharing stories of how music has made a difference during some of life's most difficult moments.

Lizzie Griffiths, Project Manager at University Hospitals Sussex charity, described the exhibition as something entirely different.

She said: "Brighton Rocks is unlike anything we've done before. These guitars will stop people in their tracks, but the stories behind them are even more powerful.

"We're turning guitars into art to help turn music into care. We hope people leave inspired not only by the artwork, but by the conversation it starts."

Helm Gallery has also welcomed the opportunity to host the exhibition, describing the combination of art, music and healthcare as a powerful way of raising awareness about mental health and patient wellbeing.

A gallery spokesperson said: "We are delighted to be supporting and hosting this magnificent event supporting NHS hospitals in Sussex."

Visitors will be able to explore the full collection of specially designed guitars, discover the stories behind the artists and learn more about the benefits music therapy can bring to patients receiving care in local hospitals.

Brighton Rocks will run at Helm Gallery in Brighton from Saturday 5 December until Friday 11 December 2026.

The collection will subsequently be made available through an international online auction, with proceeds supporting NHS music therapy services across Sussex.

Further information about the exhibition and venue can be found at www.helm-gallery.com.

BREAKING NEWS ACROSS THE SOUTH 
Don't miss the stories that matter to you! Get BREAKING NEWS ALERTS sent STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE. Download the FREE V2 RADIO APP today! Seen something? Know something? Got a story we should be covering? BE OUR EYES AND EARS. Email news tips, images and video to news@v2radio.co.uk 

HALF PRICE. BIG SAVINGS. DON'T MISS OUT!
STOP PAYING FULL PRICE! Get 50% OFF restaurants, days out, attractions and unforgettable experiences across the SOUTH. GRAB YOUR DEALS NOW at WWW.V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK