The festive season in Chichester is about to sparkle with creativity as the Christmas Tree Stroll launches across the city. This magical trail invites visitors to wander through the streets and discover a series of unique, sustainable Christmas trees, each designed by a talented artist and sponsored by a local organisation.
One of the participating artists, Bec Hopkins, shared her excitement about being involved:
âI was absolutely delighted to be invited to create a sculpture for the stroll, and we had an enormous amount of fun at our workshop during half term, where so many children joined in and made their mini bug hotels. It was amazing to see so many bug-friendly families getting involved, and I canât wait to take my own children on the Christmas Tree Stroll to discover the other sculptures.â
With trees crafted from recycled materials, innovative designs and meaningful messages, the Christmas Tree Stroll offers a chance to celebrate sustainability, artistry, and the joy of the season. Let’s take a closer look at the incredible artists and their creations that make this event so special.
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Tree of 100 Stars
Location: The Cloisters, Chichester Cathedral
Artist: Vicki Brown
Sponsor: Kiwi Recruitment
This enchanting tree radiates joy and colour under the Cloisters, with its 100 stars meticulously crafted by Vicki Brown. Using traditional lantern-making techniques, the structure combines willow and paper to create an elegant layered form. Each star delicately holds a smaller star, with a magnificent crown at the top. Itâs a whimsical display that invites visitors to count the starsâwill you find all 100?
About the artist:Â Vicki Brown is a renowned milliner celebrated for her felt creations and extraordinary hats. Her work has been showcased worldwide, including collaborations with Jean Muir and Queen Elizabeth II. From her studio, Vicki continues to inspire through workshops, sharing her expertise in felt making and millinery.Â
The Remembrance Tree
Location: Fernleigh House, North Street
Artist: Lisa Kebell
Sponsor: Chichester Festival Theatre
This thought-provoking tree, designed by Lisa Kebell, invites visitors to pause and reflect. Its cascading tissue-paper leaves, Victorian-style bamboo frame, and wooden baubles inscribed with personal messages combine to create a poignant tribute to loved ones, past and present.
About the artist: Lisa Kebell brings decades of experience as a Creative Art Director and prop designer, having worked in publishing, advertising, and the film industry. Sheâs led workshops at Chichester Festival Theatre and Petworth House, where she created striking paper and willow sculptures for the Spring Garden Trail.
This Bug Hotel Is Not Just For Christmas
Location: Bishopâs Palace Gardens
Artist: Bec Hopkins
Sponsor: Chichester BID
Combining art and education, Bec Hopkins has created a tree inspired by her daughter’s love of insects. This bug hotel doubles as a sanctuary for local wildlife and a celebration of biodiversity. Its year-round appeal highlights the importance of insects in our ecosystem, blending practicality with artistic flair.
About the artist: Bec Hopkins, based in West Sussex, draws inspiration from nature, often incorporating recycled materials into her work. Known for her experimental approach, Becâs Bug Hotel marks her first venture into three-dimensional art.
Here is Home
Location: St Martinâs Gardens
Artist: Mandy Coupar
Sponsor: Chichester City Council
A traditional tree with a heartwarming twist, âHere is Homeâ evokes the warmth and comfort of the festive season. Adorned with handmade decorations crafted by children, including doves from recycled milk cartons and wooden discs with messages, the tree radiates a sense of belonging and joy.
About the artist: Mandy Coupar is a Chichester-based artist with a rich background in textile design and floristry. Inspired by her artistic family, Mandy integrates sustainable practices into her work, transforming discarded materials into unique creations.
Silver ThreadsÂ
Location: Draperâs Yard
Artist: Helen Solly
Sponsor: Blue Spire Accountants
This intricate steel pyramid glistens with silver string and recycled milk bottle decorations, evoking the shimmering beauty of a spiderâs web after rain. Helen Sollyâs design combines sustainability and creativity, capturing the delicate interplay between light and structure.
About the artist: Helen Solly is a metalwork sculptor based in Chichester. Known for her public sculptures and solo exhibitions, Helen creates striking pieces for both interiors and gardens, using materials like stainless steel, copper, and powder-coated steel.
Woven Winter Tree
Location: The Guildhall, Priory Park
Artists: Rebecca and Mark Ford, Two Circles Design
Sponsor: Chichester District Council
Standing at an impressive 6 metres, this grand installation transforms the Guildhall entrance into a festive spectacle. Intricate baubles, stars, and heartsâcrafted in workshops by childrenâlight up the night, welcoming visitors to Priory Park in style.
About the artists: Rebecca and Mark Ford are the duo behind Two Circles Design, known for their environmentally inspired sculptures. Using natural materials and ancient techniques like willow craft, their work celebrates the beauty and history of the natural world.
Home for Christmas
Location: Chichester Festival Theatre
Artists: Jennifer Tailefer
Sponsor: Henry Adams
About the tree:
Taking inspiration from Chichester Festival Theatreâs production of âHey! Christmas Treeâ and its themes of friendship and finding home, this magical tree has been designed and created using sustainable materials. Its thoughtful design reflects a commitment to both artistry and eco-consciousness, embodying the warmth and joy of the festive season.
About the artist: Jennifer Taillefer is a milliner and eco-friendly theatre set designer, combining her creativity with a passion for sustainability. She provides carbon literacy training and consulting services for creative organisations across London, championing greener practices in the arts industry.
Explore the stroll…
As you explore the Christmas Tree Stroll, take a moment to admire the skill and passion behind these stunning designs. Which tree will be your favourite? Share your journey on social media using #ChristmasInChichester