Pallant House Gallery

In the heart of Chichester, West Sussex, lies a hidden gem that art enthusiasts and history buffs alike will find utterly captivating – the Pallant House Gallery. This magnificent institution is renowned for housing one of the finest collections of 20th-century British art in the world, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for art, history, and culture.

The History of Pallant House Gallery

The story of Pallant House Gallery begins with a remarkable building. Pallant House itself is a Grade I listed Queen Anne townhouse, constructed in 1712 for the wine merchant Henry Lisbon Peckham and his wife Elizabeth. This splendid brick-built edifice boasts large windows, a grand oak staircase, and stone ostriches from the Peckham family arms guarding the entrance gateway. The house's urbane design, attributed to a London architect, was the subject of a legal dispute in the early 18th century. The building's architectural elegance and historical significance make it a fitting home for a world-class art gallery.

The gallery's origins as an art institution can be traced back to 1977 when Walter Hussey, the former Dean of Chichester Cathedral, bequeathed his extensive collection of artworks to the city of Chichester. Hussey's collection included masterpieces by renowned artists such as Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, John Piper, Ceri Richards, and Graham Sutherland. His stipulation that the collection be displayed in Pallant House laid the foundation for what would become a cultural treasure trove.

The Collection

Over the years, Pallant House Gallery's collection has grown significantly through the generosity of various donors. In 1989, the property developer Charles Kearley enriched the gallery with works by British artists like John Piper and Ben Nicholson, as well as European artists including Paul Cézanne, André Derain, Fernand Léger, and Gino Severini. This infusion of diverse artistic styles added depth and breadth to the gallery's holdings.

In 2006, the gallery received a substantial donation from architect Sir Colin St John Wilson, who contributed works by luminaries such as Michael Andrews, Peter Blake, David Bomberg, Patrick Caulfield, Lucian Freud, Richard Hamilton, R. B. Kitaj, Eduardo Paolozzi, Walter Sickert, and Victor Willing. Many of these pieces were acquired directly from the artists, who were friends of Wilson. This personal connection to the artists imbues the collection with a unique sense of intimacy and authenticity.

In addition to its modern British art collection, the gallery once housed an exceptional array of 18th-century Bow porcelain, donated by Geoffrey Freeman. Although this collection has since been transferred to the Holburne Museum in Bath, it remains a testament to the gallery's commitment to preserving and sharing cultural heritage.

Exhibitions

Pallant House Gallery is not just a repository of art; it is a dynamic space that continually engages visitors with thought-provoking exhibitions. One notable exhibition was Evelyn Dunbar: The Lost Works, held from October 2015 to February 2016. This exhibition showcased 500 paintings by Evelyn Dunbar, doubling the number of her known works and shedding light on a previously underappreciated artist.

In 2016, the gallery mounted John Piper: The Fabric of Modernism, an exhibition that explored Piper's textile designs. This exhibition exemplified the gallery's commitment to celebrating the diverse talents of artists and their contributions to various artistic disciplines.

More recently, in 2021, the gallery hosted Glyn Philpot: Flesh and Spirit, the first major exhibition of Glyn Philpot's work since 1984. This exhibition delved into the artist's exploration of themes related to identity, spirituality, and the human form.

Other noteworthy exhibitions include Gwen John (2023), Sussex Landscape (2022-2023), Hockney to Himid: 60 Years of British Printmaking (2021-2022), and David Remfry (2015). These exhibitions showcase the gallery's dedication to presenting a wide range of artistic styles and periods, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting for visitors to discover.

The Modern Wing

In June 2006, Pallant House Gallery unveiled a stunning new wing designed by Sir Colin Wilson and Long & Kentish. This £8.6 million project was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England, the local council, and generous donors. The modern extension seamlessly integrates with the original Queen Anne building, creating a vibrant juxtaposition of old and new. The judges of the 2007 Gulbenkian Prize praised this harmonious blend, describing it as a vibrant relationship between old and new that continues to inspire contemporary installations within the gallery.

The new wing is not only architecturally impressive but also environmentally conscious. It is believed to be the first art gallery in the UK to be heated and cooled by a geothermal system, utilizing water pumped through 69 pipes descending 35 meters beneath the building. This innovative system significantly reduces the gallery's carbon emissions, making it a model of sustainability in the art world.

The Courtyard Garden

To the rear of the gallery lies a tranquil courtyard garden designed by Chelsea Flower Show gold medallist Christopher Bradley-Hole. This serene space provides visitors with a peaceful retreat where they can reflect on the art they have seen and enjoy the beauty of nature. The garden's thoughtful design and lush greenery make it a delightful addition to the gallery experience.

In conclusion, Pallant House Gallery is not just a place to view art; it is a destination that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and creativity. From its origins as a Queen Anne townhouse to its status as a world-class art institution, the gallery continues to captivate and inspire visitors from all walks of life. Whether you are an art aficionado or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, Pallant House Gallery is a must-visit destination in the heart of Chichester.