Arts & Culture in Portsmouth & South Hampshire

Offers vibrant contemporary art initiatives that enhance community engagement through public art projects, including the annual LOOKUP Portsmouth street art festival. They focus on fostering creativity and cultural appreciation among Portsmouth residents, particularly under-represented groups in the arts. The organization provides workshops and skill-building opportunities for local artists, promoting accessible public art and creative placemaking. Their efforts have significantly revitalized the local community and contributed to Portsmouth's recognition as a street art capital.

Supports independent artists and makers by providing a platform to showcase contemporary art and craft in Hampshire, Dorset, and Wiltshire. They organize craft fairs, exhibitions, and workshops that connect local artisans with art enthusiasts, fostering creativity and collaboration within the community. The organization aims to celebrate and promote the work of local artists while encouraging community engagement and support for small businesses. Their curated directory features handpicked artists and makers, ensuring quality and professionalism in the creative sector.

Encourages the freedom of expression through the arts for young refugees and children in need, focusing on providing them with a voice. They conduct workshops, performances, and exhibitions that highlight the experiences of vulnerable young adults, particularly asylum seekers. Recent initiatives include a verbatim play that shares the journeys of young asylum seekers, aimed at fostering understanding and empathy within the community. Operating primarily in Chichester, they engage local schools and residents to promote inclusivity and cultural enrichment through shared artistic experiences.

Offers creative arts programs and support services aimed at enhancing the well-being and self-expression of individuals in the Cowes community. They focus on empowering individuals facing mental health challenges through artistic engagement, promoting social inclusion and personal development. Their activities include workshops in various artistic disciplines, providing a safe space for participants to explore their creativity and connect with others. The organization serves a diverse range of beneficiaries, particularly those struggling with mental health issues.

Chichester FilmMakers C.I.C. is a non-profit organization that supports aspiring filmmakers, screen actors, and film industry professionals in the Chichester area and surrounding regions. They offer resources, training, networking opportunities, and hands-on experience through professional film productions, including screenings, cast and crew calls, and industry updates.

Organizes an annual multi-arts festival in Chichester, West Sussex, that showcases local artists, performers, and arts venues. The festival aims to enhance cultural engagement and accessibility to the arts, benefiting the community by providing a platform for diverse artistic expressions. They offer opportunities for artists to participate through applications and grants, specifically targeting those who may face financial barriers. The festival not only entertains but also fosters community involvement and supports local talent.

Delivers community-focused services and initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents in the Chichester District. Promotes social inclusion, well-being, and sustainable development through various programs and events.

Offers a range of inclusive art events, workshops, and exhibitions aimed at fostering creativity within the local community. They support both emerging and established artists, providing a platform for artistic expression and collaboration. The organization engages the public through events like the Portsmouth Open Studios Event, where artists open their spaces to showcase their work and interact with visitors. City Arts Portsmouth operates in Portsmouth and emphasizes breaking down barriers to creativity, making art accessible to all.

Offers inclusive creative workshops and events designed to enhance wellbeing through mindful creativity, specifically targeting individuals facing mental health challenges. They provide safe spaces for connection and self-expression, empowering participants to explore various artistic activities as tools for personal growth and recovery. Operating in Waterlooville, Havant, Portsmouth, and surrounding areas, they focus on supporting women with complex needs and those dealing with issues like addiction, isolation, and homelessness. Their community-driven approach ensures that funds generated from workshops are reinvested into further community initiatives.

Provides a welcoming space for individuals and families to enjoy coffee, craft activities, and community events, with all profits reinvested into local creative projects for young people. The café fosters a safe and inclusive environment for community engagement and skill development.

Empowers LGBTQ individuals and young people through community education and professional theatre, creating inclusive spaces for exploring identities and fostering creativity. Offers workshops and artistic opportunities that unite diverse communities in Portsmouth.

Offers a variety of creative workshops and activities, including arts and crafts, LEGO sessions, and Dungeons & Dragons for individuals of all ages. The centre specifically supports home-educated children and those with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP), creating an inclusive environment that fosters creativity and community engagement. Additionally, they provide online workshops and resources to ensure accessibility for all participants. Their focus on well-being and mental health is evident through their tailored programs that encourage self-expression and creativity.

Follow Your Dreamz Performing Arts CIC is a Portsmouth-based non-profit organization that provides inclusive performing arts training and opportunities for individuals of all ages, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Their services include workshops, classes, and performances in drama, dance, and music, aimed at building confidence and self-esteem while fostering creativity.

Offers a vibrant platform for contemporary art through a range of exhibitions and installations, aimed at enriching the cultural landscape of West Sussex. The foundation serves the local community and visitors by providing educational programs that foster creativity and environmental awareness. With a thoughtfully designed landscape, it enhances the experience of art appreciation for all ages. The foundation features works from internationally acclaimed artists, making contemporary art accessible and engaging for everyone.

Organizes the annual Gosport Waterfront Festival, a vibrant three-day music and arts event held in Walpole Park, Gosport. The festival showcases a diverse range of local and national talent, providing entertainment, cultural experiences, and community engagement for residents and visitors of all ages. It features top-quality music, activities, food, and drink, all brought to life by a dedicated team of local volunteers. The CIC aims to enrich the local community and promote the arts on the South Coast through this celebration.

Provides a platform for live music and community engagement, supporting local artists and fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Chichester.

Offers affordable workshops in carpentry, woodwork, DIY, and building skills specifically designed for women and gender-diverse individuals, including trans and non-binary people. Through hands-on learning experiences and supportive guidance from skilled tutors, participants are empowered to gain confidence and independence. The CIC operates just outside Steyning, West Sussex, and runs special 'woodwork wellbeing' sessions in collaboration with partner organisations to promote mental wellbeing and self-reliance among marginalized groups. Their unique approach fosters a safe and inclusive environment for learning at one's own pace.

Provides comprehensive support for film and television productions on the Isle of Wight, including location scouting, talent coordination, and full-scale production management. They assist filmmakers and production companies by leveraging local expertise and strong partnerships with local councils and businesses. Their services cater to a wide range of projects, from British dramas to international commercials, ensuring a smooth production process. The organization also collaborates with educational institutions to create opportunities for students to gain industry experience.

Provides a platform for local artists and craftspeople on the Isle of Wight to showcase their work through an annual Open Studios event, fostering community engagement and appreciation for the arts.

The Latvian Community in Portsmouth CIC is dedicated to celebrating Latvian culture and fostering connections among Latvians living in Portsmouth and South England. They provide a welcoming environment for community members to meet, engage in cultural activities, and receive support in their integration and well-being.

Offers hands-on workshops, events, and artistic experiences focused on contemporary sculpture-making. They specifically target younger artists and the local community, facilitating interactive visits and collaborative projects that inspire creativity. The organization aims to foster a deeper understanding of sculpture as a means of engaging with the world, providing a unique platform for artistic expression and learning in West Sussex.

Plans and manages community-focused cultural and entertainment events in Lee-on-the-Solent, aiming to enrich the local community through engaging experiences. They organize both free and ticketed events, such as the Victory Festival Parade and the Tales from the Sea Shanty Festival, to attract visitors and support the local economy. Their initiatives emphasize promoting emerging musical and creative talent, ensuring a vibrant community atmosphere. Montserrat Events also collaborates with local businesses to foster a thriving environment for residents of Lee and Gosport.

Creates inspirational spaces that facilitate creativity and challenge social inequalities through various initiatives. They empower women and promote cultural expression in Southsea and surrounding areas, particularly through the Inspirational Women of Portsmouth Awards and cross-cultural storytelling projects. Their work specifically benefits marginalized community members and young people, fostering creativity and confidence. The organization emphasizes collaboration and community engagement, reflecting the founder's Zambian-British roots.

Provides a vibrant creative hub for local artists and the community in Ventnor, offering exhibition space, workshops, and events that foster artistic expression. They welcome new artists to showcase and sell their work while engaging the public through diverse artistic experiences. The space is designed to be inclusive, encouraging collaboration and creativity among participants of all backgrounds. Additionally, they support community projects through feedback and engagement, helping to secure grants for further artistic initiatives.

Offers a platform for photographers to connect and engage through creative practices, focusing on accessibility and critical discussion. They provide workshops, events, and collaborative projects aimed at supporting photographers of all skill levels, particularly those who may find photography inaccessible. The organization is based in Portsmouth and is working towards establishing a darkroom to enhance access to traditional analogue printing techniques, fostering a community dialogue around photography.

Offers spray painting workshops for individuals of all ages and abilities, promoting artistic expression and creativity. The sessions are designed to be inclusive, providing safety guidance and support to participants. Operating primarily at Pitt St Undercover Skatepark in Portsmouth, they encourage community engagement through artistic activities. Additionally, they offer tailored services for private or community events, making art accessible to a wider audience.

Portsmouth Cultural Education Partnership C.I.C. collaborates with cultural and heritage organizations, schools, and freelance creatives to enhance creative education opportunities for young people in Portsmouth. They provide access to high-quality cultural experiences and resources, focusing on inspiring creativity, building confidence, and improving learning outcomes for students at local schools, including Castle View Academy, Ark Charter Academy, and The Portsmouth Academy.

Radio Respect CIC, located in Bognor Regis, provides 24/7 live on-air support for individuals facing mental health challenges, fostering community well-being through engaging broadcasts. In addition to their radio services, they operate a vinyl record shop that encourages local engagement and supports those in need.

Transforms redundant buildings in Ryde into vibrant venues for community groups and businesses, while restoring heritage sites like the Grade II listed Town Hall. This initiative fosters opportunities for cultural, commercial, and performing arts groups, enhancing local community engagement.

Promotes the performing arts by providing a platform for local artists and performers in Shanklin, Bay, and the Isle of Wight. The CIC offers opportunities for community engagement, development, and involvement in various artistic activities, benefiting both residents and visitors. They focus on preserving the historical Shanklin Theatre while facilitating performances, workshops, and events that enrich the local cultural landscape. Their initiatives aim to foster a vibrant arts community and support local talent.

Show Pride CIC promotes inclusivity and celebrates LGBTQ+ identities in Southsea through a range of community events, workshops, and educational initiatives. The organization primarily supports local LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies, fostering a sense of belonging and pride within the community.

Offers free music workshops, tuition, and performances to support music education for young people in Southeast Hampshire. The organization provides weekly harp classes and other musical training aimed at engaging and inspiring local youth. They focus on fostering a love for music and enhancing skills through community-focused activities and collaborations. Their programs are designed to be accessible, ensuring that young people from various backgrounds can participate and benefit from their services.

Offers body-positive dance classes focusing on street, hip hop, and commercial styles for children and young people aged 4 to 25. The organization aims to empower participants by fostering confidence, self-expression, and mental wellbeing through dance. Classes are available in Fareham and surrounding areas, creating a supportive environment where students can grow and connect with others. Their unique approach emphasizes nurturing both mental and physical health, ensuring a safe space for personal development.

Develops local creative networks that connect artists, makers, and creative businesses across Sussex. They offer a range of activities including exhibitions, networking events, and creative projects aimed at fostering collaboration and resource sharing among creatives. The organization supports professional development for individuals at all stages of their artistic careers, helping them to thrive in their communities. Their vision includes establishing a network of creative hubs throughout Sussex, starting with initiatives in Chichester and Brighton.

Offers an inclusive community hub where individuals can gather to co-create, share resources, and build skills. The Bognor Makerspace provides access to various tools and materials for arts and crafts, wellbeing activities, carpentry, and cooking, catering to artists, families, and local residents. Their focus is on supporting those who may have missed opportunities to develop creative skills, fostering a supportive environment that combats loneliness and promotes mental health. The facility includes accessible spaces and rooms designed for diverse activities, making it a welcoming place for everyone in the community.

Provides a community space for individuals of all ages to engage in various crafting activities, fostering creativity and connection. The organization focuses on combating loneliness and isolation through structured sessions led by skilled volunteers.

Creates a live-streamed platform that showcases local music, arts, and events while empowering young people, particularly those living with neurodiversity, through hands-on training in production and performance.

Provides live performances and theatrical events that enhance community engagement in the Isle of Wight. They offer opportunities for local residents, particularly young people and aspiring artists, to gain hands-on experience in the performing arts through workshops, productions, and advanced training initiatives. Their unique approach includes a focus on addressing the challenges faced by young individuals trying to start careers in the creative sector, particularly in areas of Multiple Deprivation. Theatre Reviva! also runs a crowdfunding initiative to support job training programs in the performing arts.

Elevates the artistic voices and talents of individuals with learning disabilities and neurodivergent artists through integrated exchange projects. They provide residency and exhibition opportunities, enabling local talent to showcase their work and engage the community in West London and Portsmouth. Their initiatives, such as Pivot Fest, focus on removing barriers to participation in the arts, promoting inclusive cultural representation, and providing free resources to inspire similar projects. This New Ground actively works to increase access for people with learning disabilities to lead, create, and participate in artistic endeavors.

Promotes and creates new and original performances for the Isle of Wight, focusing on inclusion and diversity within the performing arts. They provide opportunities for local communities, particularly young creatives, to engage in artistic expression and collaboration. The organization offers workshops, performances, and resources to support the development of local talent and foster a vibrant arts scene on the Island. Their unique approach emphasizes community involvement and the celebration of diverse voices through creative projects.