Entry will be free of charge during the day
The exhibition will run between February and March.(Image: Simon Newman)
A stunning new art exhibition all about whales is heading to Rochester Cathedral this February, inviting members of the public to get up close to these majestic creatures. The magnificent art-work installation is the creation of Tessa Campbell Fraser and is presented in partnership with MESSUMS ORG.
Featuring three impressive sperm whale sculptures suspended in the cathedral’s nave, the exhibit, simply titled Whales, will be open from Tuesday, February 10 and be free of charge to see during the day. However, Rochester Cathedral has advised that charges apply for groups, schools and special events.
Then on selected evenings visitors will be able to experience the artwork in a new light after dark. The monumental sculptures, which will remain on display until Saturday, March 7, are sized 5.2m, 4.6m and 3m respectively.
Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the world of whales and to reflect on humanity’s increasing ecological impact on the global climate. Artist, Tessa Campbell Fraser said: “In sculpting the whales as I have – transparently, using ghost netting – I want to convey the need for mankind to realise that these magnificent mammals will not exist in our world if we don’t act now to reduce catastrophic global warming and plastic pollution in our oceans.
“Rising sea temperatures will disrupt the entire ecological balance and alongside, plastic pollution cause these great emblematic creatures to become mere ghosts to us, transparent in the extreme”. The installation recently won first prize in the AHI Engaging People Award for its powerful approach to engaging audiences with the climate emergency.
Recycled ghost netting, silk chiffon and latex were used to craft the sculptures. The installation will be accompanied by a programme of sea-inspired events including concerts and family activities.
There will be the return of the BBC Big Band in Swinging under the Sea, a specially curated performance. Plus, there will also be an evening of sea shanties and full ticket information on these events can be found on the Rochester Cathedral website.
Dean of Rochester, The Very Rev’d Dr Philip Hesketh AKC DL writes: “We are truly excited about this dramatic installation in the Cathedral which we hope will provoke a positive response to how we care for our planet and its biodiversity”.
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