Free Open-Air Painting Exhibition Coming To Chichester

People can explore the vibrant colours of the Chichester District with a free exhibition of open-air paintings at Chichester Cathedral, from 12 February 2025.

Created by local artists, the ‘Plein Air’ – or open-air – artworks will be on display from 12 February until 30 March 2025, as part of an exhibition that is being delivered through the Culture Spark project.

People will be able to visit the ‘Plein Air Painting’ exhibition in The Bakery at Cloisters Kitchen & Garden at Chichester Cathedral, from 10am to 4pm each day or during café opening hours (not including Tuesdays).

Inspired by the Festival of Flowers at Chichester Cathedral and the Still Life exhibition at Pallant House Gallery, Culture Spark welcomed 75 local artists to participate in Plein Air painting sessions last summer.

The workshops took place in three beautiful locations — Woolbeding Gardens near Midhurst, Petworth House & Park, and Bishop’s Palace Gardens in Chichester — and many of the artworks created during these sessions will be displayed in the upcoming exhibition.

‘Plein Air Painting’ is part of the Culture Spark initiative — a creative partnership between Chichester District Council, Chichester Festival Theatre and Pallant House Gallery.

The Culture Spark programme of activities and events received funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is administered by Chichester District Council.

“Projects like this provide a fantastic opportunity for budding artists to showcase their work,” says Cllr John Cross, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Place at Chichester District Council.

“The exhibition celebrates local artists and some of our district’s many beautiful landscapes.

“We received fantastic feedback from those that took part in the painting workshops last year, where people were able to learn new skills or sharpen their artistic talents with the help of experienced experts.

"Using a variety of materials, such as paints, crayons, and pencils, the artists that attended were able to capture the beauty of Woolbeding Gardens, Petworth House & Park, and Bishop’s Palace Gardens.

"It’s fantastic to be able to bring a selection of artwork, which use a range of unique styles and art forms, together for everyone to enjoy.

"We are delighted that this Culture Spark project provided not only a wonderful community activity but also helped encourage creative endeavour and the many benefits of painting and drawing outdoors.

"This, in turn, has resulted in a diverse selection of beautiful work by local artists. Please come along to enjoy the exhibition and support everyone involved.” 

For more information about the exhibition, and other Culture Spark projects, visit: www.culturesparkchi.co.uk.