The UK's biggest chilli festival returns for its 23rd year. Enjoy the creative vibe of award-winning Chilli Fiesta; dance to live Latin music, watch expert cookery and gardening demonstrations and taste delicious chilli foods 'til your tongue sizzles. Make the most of the family-friendly festival atmosphere and camp on-site with quality camping facilities in the grounds of West Dean Estate, in the heart of the South Downs National Park. The Estate is home to West Dean College of Arts and Conservation and the glorious West Dean Gardens.

West Dean College of Arts and Conservation has announced the winners of a competition to create installations for its Arts and Craft Festival this June. Fine Arts students were invited to submit proposals for artworks inspired by West Dean's Collection and Archive, which preserves the legacy of College founder Edward James: 'the greatest patron of art of the early 20th century' (BBC Arts Online, April 2017). The four works include sculpture inspired by the creation of the Edward James Archive, a performance piece informed by James' involvement with Les Ballets 1933, a textile based on the clenched fist motif of the James Press, and a large-scale work that references West Dean's famous Footprint Carpet.

Catherine Woolfitt ACR MCIfA MA Classics MA Art Conservation has been appointed the new Subject Leader Historic Building Conservation and Repair at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation. She has worked on high profile and challenging projects in the conservation of built heritage for 25 years, in the UK and overseas, also lecturing for the past twenty years.

Full time Visual Arts students, and alumni from West Dean College present an exhibition of works for sale to raise funds for a catalogue for the Summer Show 2018 at West Dean and at the Espacio Gallery in London, providing an exciting opportunity to acquire drawings, paintings, prints and ceramics from emerging and recently established artists at affordable prices.

The opening of COLLECT (22 - 25 February 2018) will see the unveiling of a tapestry called Thefallowfield by artist Eva Rothschild (below right) in collaboration with the Master Weavers at West Dean Tapestry Studio, the professional studio at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation.

After the success of last year's Arts and Craft Festival, West Dean College of Arts and Conservation is delighted to announce the 2018 Festival will run from 1-3 June.

The College will open its gates to over 5,000 visitors and 200 artists, printmakers, craftspeople and writers for the UK's definitive arts and craft festival. As well as giving the opportunity to buy exquisite hand-made crafts, the festival offers exciting live demonstrations and performances, and hands-on workshops and tours, including of the award-winning Gardens. Visitors can discover the secrets of West Dean House with its intriguing arts heritage, and view exciting new art installations by students inspired by the Collection and Archive.

100+ New Short Courses announced by West Dean College of Arts & Conservation

'Explore the changing colours, textures and shapes as Spring turns into Summer and the longer, lighter days allow more time for creativity' Alison Baxter, Head of School of Arts

Basket making to botanical drawing, photography to furniture making, the 400 (including 109 new) Spring/Summer 2018 Short Courses just released by West Dean College of Arts & Conservation have something for anyone with a desire to unlock their creative potential this year. In the beautiful surroundings of the West Sussex countryside, everybody, from complete beginner to seasoned practitioner, can learn to create, craft and grow under the tuition of expert professionals in their fields.

Internationally acclaimed artists, ceramicists and academics come together for CERAMIC PLASTICITY - a one day Symposium at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation on Friday, 26 January 2018 (11am-6pm).

West Dean College, one of the country's leading arts and conservation educators, has announced its Ten-Year Vision for growth based on increased entry points and study pathways for students and a £25 million investment in campus development and outreach.