Over the next two years, we will partner with existing groups and charities supporting new participants in creative workshops that develop their artistic skills and help build confidence and new relationships.

Leading a creative life has a hugely positive effect on people’s health, wellbeing and sense of purpose, as evidenced by social prescribing initiatives recently spearheaded by the NHS. These initiatives offer a way for GPs to connect patients to community groups and other services which can offer support. Since 2002, the Community Programme has provided participants, who have a range of support needs, with long-term, meaningful opportunities to develop their artistic practice, make connections and feel they “belong”.

This transformative grant enables the Gallery to extend the Community Programme’s activities beyond its walls and reach out to more individuals who could benefit from its holistic approach.

Laura Southall, Head of Public Programmes said: “We’re thrilled that this money will enable us to get out and about and work with people who wouldn’t usually visit the Gallery. This is a big focus for us going forward. It’s also really important that this project has some longer term outcomes so we’re really excited that after the project finishes people will be able to continue developing their artistic practice through our established Partners in Art scheme, where we pair participants with local artists.”

The Community Programme also runs the Gallery’s Partners in Art scheme, which provides opportunities for people to access the art world on an equal footing, with a volunteer partner who shares their passion. If you’re a local artist based in the Chichester or Arun area and interested in finding out more about the Gallery’s Partners in Art scheme, please get in touch (01243 770833 or community@pallant.org.uk)