Immersive Arts in West Sussex

Artists and creative souls have always found the diverse West Sussex landscape inspirational. From the everchanging colours along the coast to the rich and verdant countryside, art and nature sit side by side. An increasing number of galleries and imaginative spaces can be found around the county, especially in Worthing where there is a thriving arts scene.

Look out for sculpture trails, beautifully renovated gardens, music festivals, theatres and creative opportunities around every corner. Come and reveal your inner artist here in West Sussex.

We’ve put together a list of some of the top immersive art experiences in West Sussex:

Willow weaving in Wakehurst

Discover the traditional art of willow weaving, creating unique structures in this fantastic, guided workshop running throughout the spring and summer months.

Wakehurst pond and flowers

Festival of Chichester 

A brilliant four-week celebration of the city, home to artists, actors, musicians and more. Think theatre, poetry, exhibitions, tours and open days, with a real insight into the immersive arts Chichester has to offer.

Chichester high street

Exhibitions at Newlands House Gallery

An incredible art gallery set in an 18th-century townhouse, nestled in the heart of Petworth Market Town. Hosting internationally leading art with immersive exhibitions, the newest exhibition ‘Frank Auerbach: Unseen’ explores the evolution of the contemporary painter’s practice and is not one to be missed.

Outside image of Newlands House Gallery in Petworth

Get involved with short courses at West Dean

With over 300 courses inspired by West Dean’s wonderful surroundings and award-winning gardens, the courses offer you an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the art of tapestry, ceramics and gardening to name a few.

West Dean House and College exterior

A wonderful walk through WildArt

Pulborough is home to a fantastic WildArt Trail. Following the twists and turns of the four-kilometre route, you’ll spot some incredible sculptures among the fantastic views of the South Downs and maybe even be lucky to see some of the wonderful wildlife.

The new WildArt Trail in Pulborough is an enchanting trail of sculptures and digital wildlife through the countryside in West Sussex

Royal Society of Sculptures exhibition at Chichester Cathedral

A major exhibition of 26 artworks from celebrated members of the Royal Society of Sculptures titled ‘Together We Rise’ is to be hosted at Chichester Cathedral and across its grounds. The exhibition is a demonstration of the artist’s experience of the pandemic and their collective hope for a community inspired future.

Couple walking towards Chichester Cathedral

Ropetackle Arts Centre

Experience it all with music, theatre, comedy and film at the heart of this arts centre located in Shoreham-by-Sea. A stone’s throw from the River Adur’s Coastal Link and Sculpture Trail, a visit here can make for a truly arty adventure.

Ropetackle Arts Centre

Explore a number of independent exhibitions in Worthing

Home to a number of creatives, each with their own unique art interpretations, Worthing is a truly brilliant destination for those seeking to explore immersive arts. Colonnade House, East Beach Studios, Two Faced Twins and West End Gallery and Studios are just a few of the galleries showcasing fantastic local artistry.

Brightly coloured beach hut doors of The East Beach Studios in Worthing

Arty adventures in West Sussex

Easy to get to but hard to leave behind, the West Sussex art scene is waiting to be explored.