An exciting programme of high quality, free and unique pop-up events launched in Littlehampton High Street last Saturday.

The LOVE Local High Street Family Events Programme in Littlehampton kicked off with the launch of the Step into Colour exhibition showcasing the imaginative photography by A-level students from The Littlehampton Academy. The project, supported by arts organisation Corridor, explores ways of making the High Street feel surprising and colourful through creative photography interventions. 

Some of the young people involved in the project joined in the celebrations and were thrilled to see their work on display. An experience topped by the many compliments from passers-by who were delighted to see the exciting exhibition.

Speaking at the launch, Chair of the Town Council’s Policy and Finance Committee, Councillor Dr James Walsh KStJ said: “The Town Council has been working with national youth charity Artswork with support from Arun District Council and LOCA to bring a series of Surprising Saturdays to the High Street. We hope that you will enjoy the  fantastic range of free entertainment on offer every Saturday until the 28th August. There will be pop-up performances and installations, walkabout artists, live music and even the chance to try your hand at some brilliant new arts and crafts including photography, street art and music making.”

The students’ exhibition is on display in the windows of the old Hartley’s shop opposite Boots and will be brightening up the High Street until 11th September.

Chichester Festival Youth Theatre put on two very special ‘flash-mob’ performances. Created by Daniel Hill, the high-energy theatrical battle between the Celts and Romans entertained and surprised the audience.

The #PictureLittlehampton Community Photography Challenge also launched on Saturday. Speaking about the ways in which the community can get involved with the LOVE Local programme through the Challenge, Corridor representatives Annis Joslin and Claire Wearn said: “We’re looking for fresh perspectives and alternative views of Littlehampton from everyone. Submit your photographs by the 10th September to be in with a chance of being part of a new exhibition this Autumn. There are three winning categories – most inventive, most colourful and most surprising. Our jury will select the winners, which will be exhibited in Littlehampton Museum in October and November and entries will be shared on our social media throughout the competition.”

If you need ideas and inspiration for your photography, Corridor have shared some ideas and inspiration over on their social media or at corridorprojects.org.uk 

Councillor Shaun Gunner, Leader of Arun District Council, said: “Littlehampton is changing and we are delighted to support and co-fund this programme of activities that show how exciting the town is as a place to live, work and visit. The Step into Colour photography exhibition really showcases the creativity and vibrancy of A-Levels students from the Littlehampton Academy and is a great way to kick off this fantastic events’ programme. I would encourage everyone in the local area to come down to Littlehampton to see our wonderful town and all it has to offer.”

The full programme including what is on each Saturday in August, the Step into Colour exhibition and the #PictureLittlehampton Community Photography Challenge can be found on the Visit Littlehampton website and social media channels: www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk/whats-on/love-local-arts/