A fresh exhibition is being created to showcase hidden narratives from the past.

Staff at The Novium Museum in Chichester are curating a major display called ChichestHER: Their Story, Our Inspiration, which will honour the experiences and achievements of women linked to the local area.

Slated to launch in October 2026, the initiative forms part of a two-year programme backed by a £117,266 award from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Amanda Rogan, who oversees The Novium Museum and Tourist Information Centre, explained that the showcase would highlight accounts that warrant greater recognition throughout the Chichester region. She noted that organisers wish to gather input from local residents as the project develops, ensuring the exhibition resonates with the community it serves. She encouraged people to take part in the focus group as a meaningful way to help determine the direction of the display.

The ChichestHER: Their Story, Our Inspiration initiative will combine academic research, recorded personal testimonies, public involvement and artistic output to provide a more comprehensive view of women’s experiences throughout Chichester District.

To encourage public participation, The Novium Museum is arranging a consultation session at the venue on Friday May 8 between 1.30pm and 3.30pm.

Attendance is restricted, and those wishing to join must sign up by Friday May 1 via thenovium.org/chichesther/focus-groups.

Attendees will have the chance to propose suggestions and offer opinions on both the subject matter and visual presentation of the exhibition.

Previous involvement with museums or voluntary work is not necessary.

The museum is looking for members of the public who hold a genuine interest in the topic and are prepared to share their perspectives.