This collection includes work by artists such as Edward Bawden, Jacob Epstein, Duncan Grant, Ivon Hitchens, John Minton, John and Paul Nash, John Piper and Ceri Richards and the work of theatrical designers such as Michael Annals and Peter Rice.

Dr. John Birch was Organist and Master of the Choristers at Chichester Cathedral between 1958 and 1980. He was appointed by Dean Walter Hussey, already a great patron of the arts and the future benefactor of Pallant House Gallery, and it was through his friendship and direction that Dr. Birch began to build his own collection of Modern British Art.

Thus it is entirely appropriate that many of the works will eventually find their home at Pallant House Gallery in accordance with Dr. Birch's wishes.