Oxmarket Contemporary celebrating 50 years of keeping art alive in Chichester
We are aiming to raise £50000 during 2026 to expand our support for artists and the local community over the next few years:
Each year for the next five years we want to help launch the careers of emerging local artists, designers and makers by showcasing their work in a series of special exhibitions.
We want to extend our Community Programme to reach those in our community who might not otherwise have the chance to experience the benefits of art through free workshops, discussions and gallery visits. With an emphasis on mental and physical wellbeing, we will be working with local community groups to expand access to art for all
Our First Look programme will include two projects to support disadvantaged children and young people who have little or no access to cultural experiences. We will focus on building creative confidence, skills and aspiration in young people, and improving wellbeing through community connection and creative activity.
Art for Everyone (School children age 7–17) is a project to support local school children by hosting them in the gallery and giving them access to creative activities. For many, this will be their first visit to an art gallery. Our trained staff will facilitate each session and we aim to work with 200 local students. These sessions will improve confidence, creativity, communication skills and wellbeing.
First Show (Young people age 17–19) will be a community pipeline to inspire young people and build opportunities in the arts. Working with A-level students as well as those in or about to leave college and university, we will host the first community exhibition for aspiring young local art graduates at no cost to them, with free access for the community.
- By becoming a Friend of the Gallery: for just £25 a year you can enjoy a range of exclusive events and activities whilst helping to fund our charitable activities.
- By giving a donation: donations of all sizes are most welcome and help us fund exhibitions for local and emerging artists and our community programmes and events.
- Join the Circle of local businesses powering local creativity. Our goal is simple:100 local businesses each contributing £100 to support our Community Gallery — a place where art, learning, and local pride come together. Find out more here.