Secured Donation from Leading Artist Boosts Silent Art Auction at New Park Centre

Published 15:12 on 29 Apr 2026

A major community art initiative in Chichester is gaining momentum this summer, as New Park Centre announces the secured donation of an original artwork from acclaimed local artist Louise Duggan, alongside a growing collection of contributions from artists across the region.

The month-long auction forms part of the Centres ambitious RAISE THE ROOF (RTR) campaign, which aims to raise £450,000 to replace the roof of its historic Victorian building, securing the future of one of the citys most valued creative spaces.

Louise Duggan, an internationally exhibited painter and mixed media artist based in Chichester, has donated an original artwork to the auction, reflecting her ongoing support of the local creative community and the opportunities that enable artists to share their work.

Louise Duggan, artist, said: Spaces like New Park Centre play an important role in the local creative community. They create opportunities for artists to show work, connect, and build confidence in their practice. Supporting this event felt like a straightforward way to contribute to that, and to be part of something that brings people together around creativity.

The Silent Art Auction will run throughout June, showcasing a diverse collection of donated artworks from artists across the region. Visitors will be invited to place bids across the exhibition period, with final bids closing on 30 June. All proceeds will go directly towards the RTR campaign.

The initiative has already seen strong support from the artistic community, with a growing number of contributors stepping forward.

Allison McDonald -Hughes, Centre Manager at New Park Centre, said: Weve been incredibly moved by the generosity of artists who have already committed work to the auction. This campaign is about more than a building, its about protecting opportunity, creativity and community. Every artwork donated represents a shared belief in the importance of keeping spaces like New Park Centre open and accessible for everyone. We are deeply grateful to all those who have come on board so far.

A limited number of spaces are still available for artists wishing to contribute to the exhibition.

Alongside the auction, New Park Centre is also opening its doors to local artists on 27 June, offering a special opportunity to exhibit and sell work in the Old Dojo Hall. Taking place on the same day as the nearby Chichester Gala, the event is expected to attract significant footfall and provide further visibility for local creatives.

The Centre is also encouraging the wider community to get involved in the RAISE THE ROOF campaign by organising their own fundraising activities, reinforcing the collective effort to safeguard this important cultural hub.

Event Details: Silent Art Auction

• Location: New Park Centre, Café Bar 
• Dates: Throughout June 
• Entry: Free
• Opening Times: 
• Monday to Saturday: 9am 9pm 
• Sundays: 11am 9pm
• Wednesday 10 June: 9am 7pm 
• 1618 June: 9am 5pm 
• Final Bids Close: 30 June