Arts & Crafts
There are many fantastic places for artists around the Harbour. They can often be seen quietly working on the Quay at Dell Quay, or down at Itchenor. Probably the most painted view is that of Bosham from the South side of the channel. Where ever you look you are sure to find a view that captures your imagination.
Around the harbour are many creative people and there are often craft shows in local villages halls.
The Conservancy run a variety of art and craft activities as diverse as willow basket making and driftwood sculpture. In addition there are photography days and boat trips. See the Programme of Activities for further details.
Painting the Harbour - article from Friends of Chichester Harbour Newsletter
I have been painting in watercolours on the foreshore between Rookwood and Itchenor for many years, both in Summer and through the Winter when the light is particularly good. Fellow painting Friends may find the following information useful
The backdrop provided by the Downs is very useful for it allows the sails of boats to stand out well and helps break up the horizontal aspect of the landscape. Not being a sailor, I find boats tricky to paint as those who sail can spot inaccuracies very quickly! For instance, the way the sea is running and the direction the clouds are moving must relate to the way the boats are sailing. I try to leave out too much detail, but the scale and shape of the sails are important.
Make a colour sketch so the composition is set on the spot and then take a photograph as well. You can then paint a fresh picture in the studio using these references. The photograph is important to show the state of the tide and sky at a particular time as they are continuously changing and if the painting takes a couple of hours, the tide and consequently the direction the boats are facing when at anchor may also change.
It's 2 to 3 miles from Rookwood to Itchenor and it takes around 30 minutes to reach the best views on foot - so keep your equipment light. Make sure you take at least two pots of clean water to keep your washes fresh.
The map shows some of the best views to paint remember to check on the state of the tide as it moves in very quickly and will alter the view. Also the position of the sun. The sun rises at the Chichester end of the estuary in the morning and comes round the land side behind Itchenor Park Farm in the late morning, setting behind East Head.
Make sure you carry a warm jacket and hat as the foreshore is often windy and if you become cold your attention will weaken.
I hope painters will find the foregoing of help. One last word: because the landscape and sea are flat your view will be divided between sea and sky by a horizontal line so an interesting sky is particularly important. Check on the wind - it is usually south-westerly.
Roger Smith lives in Itchenor and holds exhibitions about twice a year in Itchenor and West Wittering. Most Itchenor residents have 'Smith' hanging in their houses. If you have a favourite spot for painting or can offer advice to add to this page please contact the Harbour Office.
Roger Smith