2026 marks a significant milestone for Oxmarket Contemporary as we celebrate 50 years as an art gallery in Chichester. To commemorate this achievement, we are presenting a major four-week Retrospective Exhibition throughout July, spanning both the John Rank Gallery and the Wilson Gallery. 

Alongside the exhibition, visitors can explore a special historical display, “50 Years a Centre of Arts – 800 Years a Church,” celebrating both the gallery’s rich artistic heritage and the remarkable history of the medieval church building it occupies. 

We are delighted that our patron, the internationally renowned local sculptor Philip Jackson, will be contributing several of his much-loved works, including the bronze sculpture The Clockmaker. The exhibition will also feature works by artists who have helped shape Oxmarket Contemporary’s story over the years, including Pippa Blake, Pearl and David Goodman, Peter Iden, Piers Ottey, Neil Holland and David Souter. 

More than 70 artists who have been part of the gallery over the past five decades will be participating in this special exhibition, reflecting the rich creative history and enduring artistic community of Oxmarket Contemporary. Working across a wide range of disciplines, these artists demonstrate the breadth and diversity of contemporary practice that the gallery has championed throughout its history. 

The 50th Retrospective is both a celebration of the past and a testament to the continuing vitality of Oxmarket Contemporary and its role within the region’s artistic community. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a unique blend of history, creativity and celebration. Additional anniversary events will take place throughout the year and will be announced on our website. 

We hope you will join us in celebrating not only the last 50 years, but also the next 50.