Chichester CAN

is here to connect, create, and celebrate.
We champion diverse art forms, support local artists, and provide a platform where all voices can be seen and heard. Join us in building a creative, inclusive community—one that celebrates expression, collaboration, and the richness of our shared experiences.

Upcoming events

  • people gathered around a table

    Monthly Creative Meet-ups

    September 23rd 2025 - 12-3pm

    We’re teaming up with create south east and adventures + wisdom institute for a free event designed to inspire, support, and connect creatives across chichester and beyond.

    🗓 Tuesday 23 september
    🕛 12:00–15:00
    📍 The old court room, Chichester city council

    Whether you're just starting out or building a business around your creativity, this is for you:
    ✔ inspiring talks
    ✔ local business support
    ✔ honest conversations
    ✔ a room full of artists + makers

    The full agenda is on the Eventbrite link.

    Come connect, be seen, and grow with us 💬

  • a logo made up of faces

    Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2026 -Open Call

    September 1st 2025 - Nov 1st

    OPEN TO ALL SUSSEX ARTISTS aged over 18.
    Your chance to paint celebrity sitters in front of a live audience, with your work judged by guest industry experts.

    Show your skills, gain exposure, and compete for the title of Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2026.

  • Logo of faces

    Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year 2026

    March 28th 2026

    The Sussex PAOTY Competition is an exciting opportunity for both amateur and professional artists to battle it out for the prestigious accolade of Sussex Portrait Artist of the Year.

    Featuring celebrity sitters, guest judges, artist stalls and live entertainment throughout the day - this unmissable event takes place at The Venue, Worthing once a year. 

  • Logo for a creative space Chi

    A Creative Space Chi

    A Creative Community Group Get-Together for Arts & Crafts.

    We are excited to be supporting this great idea.

    Bring your own project, start something new using our resources, or simply connect with others for inspiration for your next creative piece!

    📅 The 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month, starting October 2025
    🕡 6:30pm – 8:30pm
    📍 Ghost At the Feast, 33–34 North Street, Chichester
    💜 Free to attend

    To learn more and book your spot for the 14th Oct, click the link below

Rooted in Creativity, Growing in Community

Launched in July 2024, Chichester CAN is part of Sussex Creative Art Network CIC, a not-for-profit community interest company. It brings together artists, creatives, and the wider community to celebrate and support the arts in all its forms.


Our mission is to amplify local voices, shine a light on the wide range of creative practices happening across Chichester, and make space for both grassroots and established artists to share their work. We’re working to build a dedicated hub for workshops, exhibitions, and collaboration—fostering an inclusive, thriving art scene rooted in connection, creativity, and community. Many of us work in isolation; Chichester CAN is about bringing us together.

We’re here to spark inspiration and bring together artists, creatives, and curious minds in a space that celebrates the joy of making and sharing art.

artists and creatives at work

Follow us on socials

live art including murals and street art
an artist painting a portrait
community art event
Artist Jake Fern winner of the sussex Portrait artist of the year 2025

Contact Us

Want to Get Involved?
We’re always looking to connect with new creatives. Sign up to stay in the loop about upcoming events, opportunities, and ways to collaborate.