Founded by contemporary artist Chantal Powell, Hogchester Arts supports artists who seek to deepen their connection to the land and respond to its rich, layered history.

A landscape of inspiration
Hogchester’s ancient fields and wildlife sanctuary have witnessed centuries of transformation. Once part of the Forde Abbey Estate, the land holds echoes of its Cistercian monastery past and intriguing archaeological finds, including Stone Age tools and Druidic artefacts. This storied environment encourages artists to explore concepts of time, place, and the natural world.
The residency programme invites artists to immerse themselves in this dynamic setting, where wildflower meadows, historic trees, and streams teem with life. It’s a space where creativity thrives, shaped by the untamed beauty of West Dorset.