Modern British art explored in new Chichester gallery

Presented in collaboration with London’s Austin/Desmond Fine Art, the show features work by many of the most important figures of the Modern British movement, including Prunella Clough, Paul Nash, Ben Nicholson, Victor Pasmore, Terry Frost, Roger Hilton, William Scott, Ivon Hitchens, John Craxton, Keith Vaughan and others.

Co-curator Emily Austin said: “Modern British focuses on a period of British art from the 1930s-1960s, a time of profound transformation and experimentation. The impact of the Second World War on the artistic landscape was immense, giving rise to a generation of artists who reimagined the possibilities of painting, form, and abstraction.

“The show traces this evolution from the psychological intensity of the neo-romantics –

Vaughan, Craxton, and Colquhoun – through the industrial poetics of Prunella Clough, to the luminous abstraction of Ben Nicholson and the St Ives School, whose members found inspiration in Cornwall’s landscape and light.

“It also includes work by the British Constructivists, such as Kenneth and Mary Martin, who explored geometry, order and chance, representing a pure abstraction that helped define a distinctly modern British aesthetic.”

Emily added: “Alongside Modern British, the gallery presents Nocturnes, a suite of prints by acclaimed contemporary artist Caroline Walker, created in collaboration with Enitharmon Editions. The presentation coincides with Walker’s solo exhibition Mothering at Pallant House Gallery, a timely connection between two of Chichester’s leading art venues.

“Julian Page Projects has quickly established itself as an ambitious new addition to the south coast’s cultural landscape. Founded by Julian Page, the gallery brings museum-quality modern and contemporary art to regional audiences through a carefully curated programme of exhibitions and editions.”

Following Modern British, the gallery will host an exciting line-up for 2026:

Abigail Norris – Ghosts in the Nursery, 4 February-28 March 2026: a poetic exploration of childhood, care and memory through sculptural installation.

Marcelle Hanselaar – Graphic Scenes, 16 April-30 May 2026: a bold series of prints examining human behaviour, politics and emotion with Hanselaar’s characteristic wit and intensity.

Julian Page Projects will also exhibit at two major national art fairs: the London Art Fair (January 20-25 2026) and the London Original Print Fair (May 14-17 2026), showcasing the gallery’s artists to wider audiences.

Modern British runs until January 17 2026 at Julian Page Projects, 12 Northgate, Chichester, PO19 1BA. Opening hours: Monday–Wednesday by appointment; Thursday & Friday 11am–4pm; Saturday 11am–2pm; closed Sundays. The gallery will close 25 December-1 January.