The permanent art collection at the University of Chichester, Otter Gallery is a very significant collection of mid-20th century British art. The collection was created mainly during the period 1950 to 1970 to inspire and educate students. Distinguished artists such as Henry Moore and Ivon Hitchens gave advice on the creation of the collection. Others agreed to the purchase of their work at very favourable rates. In this way major works of art were acquired from artists such as Terry Frost, Peter Lanyon, Stanley Spencer and Graham Sutherland. The works of art range across pictures, drawings, prints and ceramics. There are diverse forms of hanging and three-dimensional works, varying from a small maquette by Henry Moore to large architectural sculpture such as Axis Mundi by John Skelton and the Lurcat tapestry in the University Chapel.
Throughout the year general exhibitions are held in the Gallery, but at least one exhibition, usually in the summer, is devoted to displaying major works from the collection.