Chichester Cathedral is renowned for its continued commitment to the placement and development of art.
The art inside the Cathedral spans almost as long a period of time as the history of the building itself - from the twelfth century Romanesque reliefs which were rediscovered in the nineteenth century, to the celebrated stained-glass window by Marc Chagall (1978) glistening down upon the north aisle.
As well as housing a collection of important and meaningful works of art, Chichester Cathedral has been a source of creative inspiration for many. The building itself and its place within the local and religious community, have played muse for countless artists, including famous names like JMW Turner and John Constable. Therefore, it feels only fitting that in honour of the Cathedral’s 950th anniversary, Oxmarket Contemporary will be hosting a special exhibition of artwork, all of which has been inspired in one way or another by Chichester Cathedral.
Cathedral on Canvas showcases an incredible collection of works from talented local artists, each of whom have drawn inspiration from the Cathedral's architecture, history, craftsmanship or faith. With pieces ranging from sculptures and textiles to paintings and photography, this is a unique opportunity to view the Cathedral through the eyes of the people of Chichester.
Below we meet a selection of the artists whose work will be on display in the exhibition.
Nicola Hancock
Since moving to Chichester, the Cathedral has been a source of artistic interest to Nicola, both in its beauty but also due to the abstract concepts it represents, such as faith and love.
Her collection for Cathedral on Canvas was inspired by the ethereal beauty of Evensong. Tucked up in the stalls during dark winter nights Nicola absorbed the space, beauty and peace of the service at the Cathedral, translating it into a series of vivid and striking artworks.
"Evensong is the most beautiful of services, nestling in the space between gratitude for the day and preparation for the night. The Cathedral in its compassion, so vast yet intimate, so massive yet ethereal, gloriously received and magnified the choir’s voice, filling up with peace while echoing with song, and generously added its multitude of colours to my books."
Polly Meynell
Specialising in textiles, with a focus on ecclesiastical works, Polly has created installations for many sacred spaces, including designing and making the inaugural robes for the first female Bishop of Gloucester.
Having lived in the area for most of her life, Chichester Cathedral has always been a visual beacon in Polly's life, a reassuring sight that can be seen from both sea and land. However, the work Polly will be exhibiting in Cathedral on Canvas takes inspiration in a more spiritual form. Part of a series called Hand in Hand, the artworks explore the theme of maternal separation and change and how the body reacts to a remote relationship, with a direct connection to Mary, mother of Jesus.
Rosemary Pocock
Growing up in the area, the city of Chichester and Chichester Cathedral have always been a part of Rosemary's life and the Cathedral's iconic architecture has informed many of her artworks.
Specialising in watercolour, acrylic and oil paintings, her series for Cathedral on Canvas focuses on a collection of views of the Cathedral at different times of year, exploring the relationship between the striking architecture of the building and its surroundings. As well as a Van Gogh inspired 'starry night' landscape from Canon Lane, the series includes striking vistas of the Cathedral from a wintery Bishop’s Palace Gardens, the Spire emerging from the mist and the Cathedral flooded with light at Christmas time.
“The Cathedral has inspired my artwork from distant views to internal archway structures. The ‘archway’ has been a recurring theme for me throughout the years particularly developed in lockdown.”
Helen Solly
Known for her striking sculptures, Helen manipulates metal sheets into minimal abstract forms. Interested in the strength and longevity of metal, her pieces are often designed to create the illusion of movement, playing with texture and finish to achieve her means.
Helen's collection for Cathedral on Canvas is not only inspired by, but is in fact part of the Cathedral. Using copper from the iconic Cathedral roof, which has now been replaced with lead, Helen created a series of sculptures inspired by themes within the Cathedral. This beautiful verdigris copper is nearly 100 years old and the material has marks from the natural weathering.
Sue England
A regular exhibitor at Oxmarket Contemporary, the artworks Sue will be showcasing at Cathedral on Canvas have been designed to evoke the feeling of Chichester Cathedral. Featuring three silkscreen images, the works were created in response to sitting in the Cathedral and absorbing the music or stillness of the moment. It is Chichester Cathedral's accessibility and openness to all, as well as the architecture and the sense of space and play of light, which Sue believes makes it such a special place.
"I am always uplifted from spending time in the space."
Gael Emmett
Gael specialises in jewellery and metalwork, with her designs often reflecting the rhythms and shapes found in the natural landscape. A resident of the area for many years, Chichester Cathedral's artistic heritage has long provided her with inspiration.
The pieces Gael will be exhibiting as part of Cathedral on Canvas have been inspired by the metal and stonework seen at the Cathedral. Tapping into the story of the building and its place in history, these simple yet strong designs reflect the power of the materials they are cast from and represent the strong presence of faith and worship in the Cathedral.
“As a local artist and resident, the Cathedral is a landmark and constant reminder of the history and importance of our city. This is a fitting collaboration between the Oxmarket, a community gallery and originally a chapel itself, and the Cathedral.”
These featured artists and many more will be displaying artwork as part of Cathedral on Canvas at Oxmarket Contemporary from Tuesday 1st – Sunday 13th April 2025. For opening times and further information please click here to visit their website.