The idea was simple

Why not expand the annual ‘Art on the Green’ show, founded by local artist Chris Liddiard, into a week of activities involving theatre, music and other arts. The idea quickly gathered momentum, with enthusiastic support from everyone who heard about it. We decided to call the project the ‘Little Arts Festival’ because we believe it should be friendly and informal so that everyone living locally feels able to take part. The Little Arts Festival finally took place in 2016, and from that very successful coming together of the various local arts groups and artists, we have formed The Little Arts as an ongoing network and forum to encourage local arts and crafts.

All the arts, by anyone, for everyone

We wanted the Little Arts Festival to be about the ‘Arts’ in the widest possible sense, including all genres of visual arts, drama, music, dance, making things, poetry, literature, film, digital media and anything else people can dream up. To achieve this we involved all the ‘arts’ groups and enthusiasts that already exist locally.

A little arts project that’s big on community involvement

The Little Arts project is all about local ideas and talents in every facet of the arts. It’s for artists, enthusiasts and audiences of all ages and interests, in all the areas around Rushlake Green. So please whatever your thing – whether it’s contributing or performing, suggesting ideas, helping to make it happen, or being interested in attending, or participating in, arts events – please get in touch, become a Friend and be part of our community project.

Many local groups such as the Village Players, the Warbleton Brass Band and the Downland Poets came forward early on to propose events and activities were at the heart of the 2016 festival programme. From small beginnings that programme continued to grow, as more groups and individuals came up with ideas, with the final programme totalling more than forty items. We continue to support everyone who contributed and will use this website and our facebook page to promote all the arts activities involving local groups and individuals.