Winchester Cathedral Art
Thank you for your interest in Arts events at Winchester Cathedral. If you would like to make an application please read the policy outlined below. If you fulfil the criteria please contact the Arts and Exhibitions Consultant for an application form. sophie.hacker@winchester-cathedral.org.uk
Arts and Exhibitions Policy
Winchester Cathedral has an established reputation for engagement with the visual arts. This Policy, implemented by the Arts and Exhibitions Group, seeks to create a measured and varied programme of visual arts events to complement and enhance the Cathedral’s wide-ranging programme of musical events, and to use the rich variety of spaces available in the Cathedral.
1. Art exhibitions in the Cathedral should (in no particular order):
1.1. engage creatively with the building and the Christian faith it embodies
1.2. enrich the experience of those who visit and worship at the Cathedral
1.3. connect with and represent currents of secular culture
1.4. provoke and promote learning through art for all ages
1.5. enhance the Cathedral’s regional and national profile and reputation
1.6. increase visitor numbers.
2. Criteria for any artwork to be exhibited at Winchester Cathedral (in no particular order):
2.1 work must be open to theological interpretation that is not antipathetic to the Christian faith
2.2 work must meet all health and safety requirements listed in the method statement
2.3 artists must be willing to adhere to all terms and conditions in their contract
2.4 artists must be willing to contribute interpretative material or be involved with supporting educational events, wherever appropriate
2.5 artists must be willing, where appropriate, to seek external funding in support of exhibitions
2.6 all work submitted must be of a standard deemed acceptable by the Arts and Exhibitions Group.
3. Priority will be given to work which (in no particular order):
3.1 is site-specific or site-responsive
3.2 explores specific theological ideas and themes
3.3 will engage and challenge visitors and worshippers in appropriate ways
3.4 creates partnership with other institutions
3.5 can attract funding by grant or sponsorship
3.6 will have wide appeal to visitors.
4. The type of work accepted should also be varied (in no particular order):
4.1 sculpture and installations
4.2 paintings, ceramics and drawings
4.3 interactive video work
4.4 performance.
5. Individual artists and groups are welcome to approach the Cathedral with proposals for exhibitions. These proposals are considered on their merits and according to the wider priorities established by the Policy. We also approach artists to establish a programme which includes (in no particular order):
5.1 established professionals
5.2 local schools, 6th form colleges and institutions of further or higher education
5.3 art and craft groups in the locality, where appropriate
5.4 exchange exhibitions in partnership with other institutions.