Community Programme
Our Community Programme is just one of the ways in which we can support everyone's creative journey.
Our Community Programme enables everyone to experience a creative life on their terms.
Leading a creative life has tremendously positive benefits. Our Community Programme provides nearly 200 people who have a range of support needs with meaningful, long-term opportunities to be creative. We offer a supportive and welcoming environment to ensure everyone feels comfortable and able to express creativity in whatever way they like.
Whether it’s learning a new technique, working on personal art projects, or talking about art in a friendly and supportive environment there is a way to be involved. We encourage and support individuals to access our opportunities in a way that best suits them.
My concentration and motor skills have improved. I am more willing to try new experiences. Being part of the programme is like going home, I feel I belong.
Community Programme participant
Studio Sessions
Community Programme members create artwork in the studio with the support of an artist facilitator in our weekly pre-booked sessions. We also run workshops led by artist educators where members can learn new techniques and create work in response to the current exhibitions.
Partners in Art
Partners in Art provides opportunities for people to access the art world on an equal footing, with a volunteer partner who shares their passion. The focus is on art, not people’s disability or support needs, and for those involved it can be an important life-changing opportunity. Started in 2002, the scheme has supported over 300 people to explore their art interest. Each partnership is different and unique to the people in it.
Partnership Working
Partnership working is an important part of the Community Programme. We work with local organisations including Chichester Social Prescribing and Sanctuary in Chichester. We offer regular networking and taster sessions for local support workers.
Wellbeing Opportunities
We have 2 monthly wellbeing sessions that are open to all. Booking is required. Creative Conversations is an opportunity for people to spend time looking and discussing selected art works in the gallery. This is open to all and dementia friendly. Wellbeing Wednesdays encourages participants to mindfully engage with the collection though drawing and creative based activities.
Click the links below to find out how you can join or volunteer with the Community Programme.
Become a Community Programme volunteer
If you have any other questions, please get in touch via community@pallant.org.uk.
Young Pallant Artists
The Young Pallant Artists (YPAs) are a group of artists aged 18-30 who meet weekly in the Gallery’s Studio to work on their own creative projects, drawing inspiration from the Gallery’s collection and exhibitions. The group offers a welcoming and inclusive space for people who require extra support. The YPAs can also make the most of opportunities within the wider Community Programme, including art trips and the chance to exhibit their artwork.
In January 2025, the YPAs co-curated Young Pallant Artists Select: Screenprints, a Print Room exhibition of screenprints from the Gallery’s collection.
To find out more about the YPA group or to apply to join, please email us. There is currently space for new members.
Free annual pass for community groups
If you’re a local community group, you could be eligible for our free Access to Art Pass.
The Access to Art Pass pass enables organisations that support people who for a range of reasons many not usually visit the Gallery or need support to do so.
If you are interested in applying for the Access to Art Pass on behalf of your group please contact us.
Support our Community Programme
Our Community Programme is supported entirely through donations. Your support, at any level, will make a difference.
Amount to Donate £0
Past Projects
Symposium
Creating Community: Exploring Values Led Engagement
On 18 March 2024 we ran a symposium exploring the key to successful community engagement cutting-edge theories and practices, and real-life experiences.
Work in Progress (2021-2) Project
Work in Progress (2021-2), was a group portrait co-created by artists Jann Haworth and Liberty Blake. This exciting piece formed part of Reframing Narratives: Women in Portraiture project at the National Portrait Gallery.
This large-scale seven-panel commission features 130 brilliant women who have had made their mark on British history and culture, including Beatrix Potter, Angela Carter and Helen Boyle.
The mural was created in collaboration with colleges and community groups across the UK, including members of our Community Programme.
Read our Social Impact Study
In 2016 we commissioned a report to independently measure and evaluate the potential social impact of the Community Programme on the lives of the participants, volunteers and Gallery staff.
The results revealed that over 80% reported learning a new skill and 95% reported that the programme had helped to build confidence and self-esteem.
Download the report to find out more about this unique and life-changing programme.
Pallant Partners Programme
This National Lottery Community Fund funded outreach programme worked with 6 local organisations to bring art to those who might not otherwise connect with the Gallery.
