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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Meet artists and enjoy the buzz

Oxmarket Contemporary Chichester
Best Time
Meet artists and enjoy the buzz

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub for contemporary art in Chichester, showcasing diverse local talent with rotating exhibitions and unique pieces for sale.
"A wonderful place to visit and admire, possibly buy any of the works of art on display."

🎯 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!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Local Artistry
Hidden Gem in Chichester
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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!
🎨 Support Local Artists
Many artworks are for sale at reasonable prices. A great way to take a piece of Chichester art home.
☕ Coffee & Cake Available
Enjoy a coffee and cake while admiring the art.
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!
📍 Hidden Entrance
It's behind M&S on East Street. Look for the signs!
🎨 Support Local Artists
Many artworks are for sale at reasonable prices. A great way to take a piece of Chichester art home.
☕ Coffee & Cake Available
Enjoy a coffee and cake while admiring the art.
🚶♀️ Easy to Access
Located centrally in Chichester, making it a convenient stop.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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!
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.
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.
The gallery is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate visitors. It's advisable to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Oxmarket Contemporary is typically free, allowing everyone to enjoy the exhibitions. Donations are always welcome to support their work.
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.
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.
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.
No, Oxmarket Contemporary is a public gallery and welcomes visitors of all ages. It's a family-friendly space.
🎫 🎨 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.
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.
Yes, standard visitor facilities, including restrooms, are available within the gallery.
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.
Yes, Oxmarket Contemporary is a welcoming space for families. Children can enjoy exploring the different artworks and might find inspiration in the creative displays.
🍽️ ☕ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
Yes, phone cameras are generally fine for personal photos. The goal is to capture your experience and share the art you admire.
This depends entirely on the current exhibitions. Keep an eye out for vibrant colours, interesting textures, or unique conceptual pieces that catch your eye.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
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.
🛍️ Shoppers & Day-Trippers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art Scene at Oxmarket Contemporary
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.
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.
The Volunteer-Run Ethos
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit