Chichester Open Studio - Open Call
Call for Artists. Chichester Open Studios is delighted to invite local artists to be a part of the eagerly awaited Chichester Open Studios Art Trail 2026, 25th Anniversary.
This respected tradition celebrates the incredible talent residing in the Chichester City Area and the organizers are now calling for artists to register.
Key Details: Registration Dates: The registration period opens on, October 10th, 2025 and closes at midnight on November 30th. Art Trail Dates: The Chichester Open Studios Art Trail 2026 is scheduled for May 16th, May 17th, May 23th, May 24th, and Bank Holiday May 25th, promising an insight into the working studios of artists for art enthusiasts and the wider community. This remarkable event offers a unique opportunity for local artists to open their doors and showcase their creative talents and is an opportunity for art collectors to buy unique works. The Art Trail will feature an anticipated 150 exhibiting artists and to guide visitors along the Art Trail, 20,000 full-colour guides will be printed.
The Chichester Open Studios Art Trail has a legacy dating back to its establishment in 2001, making it a well-respected and long-running event in the local art scene. Artists who wish to participate will be required to pay a registration fee of £120, which grants them a featured entry in the guide, a valuable resource for both artists and art lovers.
As a special highlight leading up to the main event, a "Snap-Shot" exhibition will be hosted in the prestigious John Rank Gallery and across the Wilson Gallery at Oxmarket Contemporary, East Street, Chichester, during April. This exhibition promises an intriguing preview of the artistic diversity and creativity that will be on display during the Art Trail. The Chichester Open Studios Art Trail is not only a celebration of art but also a testament to the thriving artistic community within the region. It offers artists the chance to connect with a broader audience and art enthusiasts the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local art scene. For artists interested in joining this prestigious event and for more details on registration, please subscribe to the newsletter: chichesteropenstudios.org
Finalists' Portraits from Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year
The Oxmarket Gallery is set to host a striking exhibition featuring the finalists' works from the Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year competition. This follows a thrilling live painting challenge that showcased the incredible talents of nine portrait artists.
The competition, held at The Venue on Chapel Road, was organized by Louise Duggan, founder of Sussex Creative Art Network CIC, under Chichester Creative Art Network (Chichester CAN) as a fundraising event for Sussex Creative Art Network CIC. It brought together a dynamic group of artists—Tim O’Brien, Adrian Sensicle, Mandy Worster, Jake Fern, Tracey Cranidge, Jodie Drew, Maria Huxstep, Tim Bidwell, and Helen Stone—who each faced the challenge of capturing the essence of three well-known sitters: musician Dunstan Bruce, comedian Rich Wilson, and actor Richard Campbell. With just four hours to create their pieces, the artists worked under the watchful eyes of a captivated audience of 200 spectators.
After careful deliberation, an esteemed judging panel crowned Jake Fern as the winner for his powerful portrait of Dunstan Bruce, former lead singer of anarcho-punk band Chumbawamba. Tim Bidwell secured second place with his compelling depiction of Rich Wilson, while Jodie Drew took third with her striking portrait of Richard Campbell.
The competition was judged by three accomplished figures in the art world: Wendy Barrett, Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year winner; Amy Dury, a former Sky Portrait Artist of the Year participant; and Eden Maseyk, co-founder of Helm Gallery. Their expertise and keen eye for artistic excellence ensured a fair and insightful selection process.
Now, art lovers have the unique opportunity to view these outstanding portraits up close at the Oxmarket Gallery. The exhibition will run from 1st April – 13th April offering visitors the chance to experience first hand the skill, creativity, and passion that defined this year's competition.
For more information about the exhibition, please visit www.sussexpaoty.com
Artist Meet Up at Oxmarket
Artists Meet Ups and Networking with Chichester CAN
This month, we're teaming up with Oxmarket Contemporary, who have kindly invited us to join them—along with tea, cake, and drinks!
Our artists meet-ups are a space for local artists to connect, share, and support one another. Whether you're looking for creative inspiration, professional advice, or just a friendly chat with like-minded people, these gatherings foster a strong sense of community and collaboration.
Let’s build a supportive network where artists can grow, inspire, and thrive—together!
Location: Oxmarket Contemporary Gallery, Chichester
Date: March 18th
Time: 4.30pm - 6pm
This is a free event
4.45pm A short introduction from Chichester CAN
Followed by an artist introduction, giving you the opportunity to share,
What it is you do. Mediums, style etc
Any upcoming exhibitions you are in and want to share.
Areas you need help from the group.
We will wrap up the meeting with time to connect, exchange ideas, and get to know fellow artists.
