Funk Format Soul Rawkus

The South Downs National Park has it all – rolling hills, glorious heathland, river valleys, ancient woodland, thriving villages and towns. We are the youngest National Park in England, and the most densely populated, spanning from Winchester in the west to Eastbourne in the east. This iconic landscape is managed in partnership for nature, beauty and heritage, for the benefit of people – communities and visitors alike. It has been a refuge and sanctuary, a working landscape and a recreational one, an inspiration for artists over centuries. We both seek to preserve the unique archaeological and historical legacies of past communities and support the creation of new responses to the landscape by contemporary artists, writer and makers.

We believe in breaking the mould. We’re here to challenge the mass-produced, the impersonal, and the disposable by championing independent makers, fostering creativity, and creating a real, local alternative to online and high-street retail. Our mission is to provide crafters with a space to sell their work without the barriers of traditional retail while ensuring customers can discover authentic, locally made goods and explore their own creativity through hands-on workshops. We curate a space where people can shop with confidence, knowing they are supporting real artisans and small businesses. We empower people of all ages and backgrounds to explore their creative potential, and offer a relaxed pressure-free shopping experience.

At the University of Winchester, we believe in the transformative power of culture and creativity. As a local anchor institution, we are dedicated to building a thriving and dynamic community where art, celebration of our heritage, and innovation flourish. Collaboration is the key to creating meaningful societal, civic, and community-based benefits. By embedding ourselves with our local community and businesses, we aim to facilitate opportunities for mutual growth and innovation. By supporting local organisations and businesses, attracting talented individuals, and enriching the lives of our students, staff and residents, we are confident that we can help make our region flourish.