Oxmarket Centre
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Oxmarket Contemporary Chichester

4.6
·117 reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant hub for contemporary art in Chichester, showcasing diverse local talent with rotating exhibitions and unique pieces for sale.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

During Exhibition Openings

Meet artists and enjoy the buzz

CrowdMedium
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Oxmarket Centre

Oxmarket Contemporary Chichester

Best Time

During Exhibition Openings

Meet artists and enjoy the buzz

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant hub for contemporary art in Chichester, showcasing diverse local talent with rotating exhibitions and unique pieces for sale.

4.6
(117 reviews)

"A wonderful place to visit and admire, possibly buy any of the works of art on display."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

Exhibitions rotate frequently. Visit their website or social media to see what's on before you go!

📍 Hidden Entrance

It's behind M&S on East Street. Look for the signs!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Main Gallery Spaces

Experience a dynamic array of local and regional art, from paintings and photography to ceramics and printmaking. Exhibitions change frequently, offering fresh perspectives.

Local Artist Showcases

Local Artist Showcases

Various Exhibition Areas

Discover the work of talented local creatives, including photographers like Benjamin Graham and painters like Nicole Phillips. Many pieces are available for purchase.

Unique Gifts & Souvenirs

Unique Gifts & Souvenirs

Gallery Shop Area

Find one-of-a-kind items, from handmade Christmas decorations to art cards and tea towels, perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Local Artistry

Oxmarket Contemporary showcases a vibrant mix of professional and amateur art. It's a fantastic spot to discover local talent and find unique pieces, from paintings to handmade decorations. Plan your visit to coincide with their diverse exhibitions.

Hidden Gem in Chichester

Tucked away behind M&S on East Street, this gallery is a delightful find. While central, it's easy to miss, so keep an eye out! It's run by dedicated volunteers and offers a welcoming space to explore contemporary art.

Best Times

When
During Exhibition Openings
Why
Meet artists and enjoy the buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, Mid-morning
Why
Quieter viewing experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

[ Ox Club Restaurant ] Contemporary Fine Dining📍Phnom Penh @Ox Club Restaurant #movearoundwithme #fyp #explore #chillwithtiktok #weekend #chill #relaxing #traveling #onthisday #cambodia #phnompenhcity #restaurant #finedining #cafetour #cafereview #caferecommendation
@movearoundwithme
1.6K likes • 58K views

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

Exhibitions rotate frequently. Visit their website or social media to see what's on before you go! Instagram+1

📍 Hidden Entrance

It's behind M&S on East Street. Look for the signs! Reddit

Chichester town centre haul 🛍️ #happeabalance #happeafamily #haul #shopping #shoppinghaul
@hollievstanford
1.3K likes • 31.4K views
We are thrilled to welcome back the fourteen artists of Artel to Oxmarket Contemporary for their annual collective exhibition - ‘The Space Between’. This band of local creatives came together in 1997 to inspire, generate and incubate work through the sharing of ideas and experiences. Each year, collective thinking arrives at a conceptual theme for this show, and the artists forensically examine an...
oxmarketcontemporary
39 likes • 611 views

🎨 Support Local Artists

Many artworks are for sale at reasonable prices. A great way to take a piece of Chichester art home. InstagramReddit

☕ Coffee & Cake Available

Enjoy a coffee and cake while admiring the art. Instagram

✨ Chichester Open Studios – Snapshot Exhibition ✨ A preview of this year’s @chichesteropenstudios is launching next Tuesday with the Snapshot Exhibition at @oxmarketcontemporary. 📍 Oxmarket Contemporary, Chichester
📅 Opening: Tuesday, 15th April
🗓 Exhibition runs for two weeks
 This group exhibition features a single piece from each of the participating artists, offering a vibrant glimpse into t...
chichestercreativeartnetwork
22 likes • 762 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

Exhibitions rotate frequently. Visit their website or social media to see what's on before you go! Instagram+1

📍 Hidden Entrance

It's behind M&S on East Street. Look for the signs! Reddit

🎨 Support Local Artists

Many artworks are for sale at reasonable prices. A great way to take a piece of Chichester art home. InstagramReddit

☕ Coffee & Cake Available

Enjoy a coffee and cake while admiring the art. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Easy to Access

Located centrally in Chichester, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(117 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Oxmarket Contemporary for its vibrant exhibitions showcasing a mix of professional and amateur art, with many highlighting the opportunity to meet artists and purchase unique pieces at reasonable prices. The volunteer-run nature and central, albeit slightly hidden, location are also frequently mentioned positives.

"Saw an amazing exhibition of art by Oscar Romp. Seeing is believing how he captures the essence of the jazz dance movement and the vivid use of colour. The paintings are for sale at reasonable prices."

Simon Tickner

"A charity promoting all that is good about
art. Run by Volunteers. The centre offers
a great space for displays and exhibitions.
I was lucky to see, and meet, a spectacular
show by the renowned local photographer,
Benjamin Graham. Easy access."

roland j. ruttledge

"We bought cards and an arty teatowel."

Emily Hay

What People Like

Diverse art exhibitions
Support for local artists
Reasonable art prices

What People Dislike

Entrance can be hidden

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Oxmarket Contemporary is located in the heart of Chichester, behind Marks & Spencer on East Street. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the town centre. For those driving, there are several car parks nearby, such as the Northgate Car Park or the Cattle Market Car Park. Public transport options include local bus services that stop in the town centre, and Chichester train station is a short walk away. Reddit

While centrally located, the entrance can be a bit hidden. Look for signs behind the M&S store on East Street. It's a bit of a 'hidden gem' experience! Reddit

Several public car parks are within a short walking distance, including Northgate Car Park and Cattle Market Car Park. These are convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, Chichester has a well-connected bus network, and the train station is also within walking distance, making it accessible for those using public transport. Reddit

The gallery is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate visitors. It's advisable to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility needs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Oxmarket Contemporary is typically free, allowing everyone to enjoy the exhibitions. Donations are always welcome to support their work. Reddit

Opening hours can vary slightly depending on the exhibition, but they are generally open daily from around 10 am to 4:30 pm, with Sundays often having slightly shorter hours (e.g., 12 pm to 4 pm). It's best to check their current schedule online. Instagram

Yes, Oxmarket Contemporary often hosts private views for new exhibitions, which can be a great opportunity to meet artists and experience the art in a lively atmosphere. Instagram

Absolutely! A key feature of Oxmarket Contemporary is that most of the artwork on display is for sale, offering visitors the chance to buy original pieces directly from artists at reasonable prices. InstagramReddit+1

No, Oxmarket Contemporary is a public gallery and welcomes visitors of all ages. It's a family-friendly space. Reddit

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse range of contemporary art, including paintings, photography, ceramics, printmaking, and sculpture. They showcase both established and emerging artists. Instagram+2

A typical visit can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the current exhibitions and whether you plan to browse the shop or enjoy refreshments. Reddit

Yes, standard visitor facilities, including restrooms, are available within the gallery. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a member of staff, especially if flash photography might disturb others or damage artwork. Instagram

Yes, Oxmarket Contemporary is a welcoming space for families. Children can enjoy exploring the different artworks and might find inspiration in the creative displays. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

While not a full restaurant, Oxmarket Contemporary often has a small cafe area where you can purchase coffee, tea, and cakes, making it a pleasant spot to relax during your visit. Instagram

Being in the centre of Chichester, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants within a short walking distance, offering a wide variety of food and drink options. Reddit

It's generally not permitted to consume your own food and drinks inside the gallery spaces to protect the artwork. However, you can enjoy refreshments from their cafe. Instagram

The cafe offerings can vary, but typically you can find standard options like coffee and tea. For specific dietary needs, it's best to inquire directly or explore the many nearby eateries. Instagram

While the cafe is more for light refreshments, the surrounding area offers many casual lunch spots. The gallery itself is a great place to visit before or after a meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal, non-commercial use is usually allowed. However, always check for specific signage or ask gallery staff, especially regarding flash photography which can damage delicate artworks. Instagram

The main restriction is usually on flash photography. Some exhibitions might have specific rules, so it's best to be mindful and respectful of the art and other visitors. Instagram

The diverse range of contemporary art offers endless photographic opportunities. Focus on capturing the textures, colours, and unique styles of the paintings, sculptures, and prints. Instagram+1

Yes, phone cameras are generally fine for personal photos. The goal is to capture your experience and share the art you admire. Instagram

This depends entirely on the current exhibitions. Keep an eye out for vibrant colours, interesting textures, or unique conceptual pieces that catch your eye. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Oxmarket Contemporary is a great spot for families looking to introduce children to art in a relaxed environment. The diverse range of exhibitions means there's often something visually engaging for younger visitors, from colourful paintings to interesting sculptures. Reddit

It's a good idea to check the current exhibition themes beforehand to see if they align with your children's interests. The gallery is generally accessible and not overly crowded during weekdays, making it easier to navigate with little ones. Plus, the opportunity to see art for sale might spark conversations about creativity and careers. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors

For those passionate about contemporary art, Oxmarket Contemporary offers a curated selection of works from talented artists, many of whom are local. The rotating exhibitions mean there's always something new to discover, and the chance to meet artists during private views or specific exhibition days adds a personal touch. Instagram+2

The gallery is particularly appealing for those looking to acquire original art at reasonable prices. You can find unique paintings, prints, and ceramics that might not be available elsewhere. It’s a fantastic place to support emerging and established artists directly and potentially find that perfect piece for your collection. InstagramReddit+1

🛍️ Shoppers & Day-Trippers

If you're exploring Chichester town centre, Oxmarket Contemporary is a perfect, easily accessible detour. It's conveniently located behind the main shopping street, making it a great place to pop into for a dose of culture between shopping stops. Reddit

Even if you're not a seasoned art critic, the gallery offers a pleasant break from the hustle and bustle. You can admire a variety of artworks, perhaps pick up a unique souvenir like an art card or a decorative tea towel, and even enjoy a coffee and cake. It's a refreshing addition to a day of exploring Chichester. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Art Scene at Oxmarket Contemporary

Oxmarket Contemporary is a cornerstone of Chichester's art scene, dedicated to showcasing a broad spectrum of contemporary art. It functions as a vital platform for both established and emerging artists, offering a dynamic exhibition program that changes regularly. Visitors can expect to encounter a wide variety of mediums, including paintings, photography, ceramics, and printmaking. The gallery prides itself on presenting diverse artistic voices and styles, making each visit a potentially new discovery. Instagram+2

The gallery's commitment to local talent is evident, with many exhibitions featuring artists from Sussex and the surrounding regions. This focus not only supports the local creative community but also provides visitors with a unique opportunity to connect with art that is rooted in the local landscape and culture. The atmosphere is often described as welcoming and accessible, encouraging engagement with the art and artists. Instagram+2

Beyond the exhibitions, Oxmarket Contemporary often serves as a hub for artistic activity, sometimes hosting events, workshops, or private views. This makes it more than just a gallery; it's a place where art enthusiasts can gather, discuss, and even purchase pieces they admire, often at accessible price points. Instagram+1

The Volunteer-Run Ethos

A significant aspect of Oxmarket Contemporary's charm and operational success is its reliance on a dedicated team of volunteers. This volunteer-run model fosters a strong sense of community and passion for the arts. These individuals contribute their time and energy to ensure the gallery runs smoothly, from managing exhibitions to assisting visitors. Reddit

This ethos translates into a personal and often intimate experience for visitors. Volunteers are typically knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the art on display, often happy to share insights or stories about the artists. This personal touch distinguishes Oxmarket Contemporary from larger, more institutional galleries, offering a more grounded and community-focused art experience. Reddit

The volunteer spirit also means that the gallery can offer free entry, making contemporary art accessible to a wider audience. While donations are encouraged to support the gallery's operations, the absence of an admission fee is a testament to their commitment to art for everyone. Reddit

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