The Novium Museum in Chichester is inviting local people to help shape a major new exhibition celebrating the lives and achievements of women connected to Chichester District.
The exhibition, titled ChichestHER: Their Story, Our Inspiration, is due to open in October 2026 and has been made possible thanks to a £117,266 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
It forms part of a two-year project aimed at uncovering and sharing the stories of remarkable women from across the district whose work, influence and achievements have helped shape local life, but whose contributions may not always have received the recognition they deserve.
As part of the project, the museum is asking local residents to take part in a focus group being held at The Novium Museum on Friday 8 May 2026, from 1.30pm until 3.30pm.
The session will give participants the opportunity to help develop the exhibition by sharing ideas and offering feedback on the proposed content and design. The museum says no previous experience of working or volunteering in museums is needed, and is simply looking for people with an interest in the subject and a willingness to share their views.
Places at the focus group are limited. Anyone interested in taking part is being asked to register via The Novium Museum’s ChichesterHER focus groups page by Friday 1 May 2026.
ChichestHER: Their Story, Our Inspiration will bring together research, oral histories, community collaboration and creative work in a bid to present a fuller picture of women’s lives across Chichester District.
Amanda Rogan, Manager of The Novium Museum and Tourist Information Centre, said: "This exhibition will tell stories that deserve to be better known across Chichester District. We want to hear from local people as we develop it, so that the exhibition reflects the community and speaks to the people who live here now. Taking part in the focus group is a great way to help shape the exhibition, and we hope people will get involved."
More information about the project is available on The Novium Museum 'ChichestHER' page(opens new window)
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