Holy Writ - One Year On

"A gem of an exhibition.  Whoever’s vision this was, I thank them for a truly inspiring experience."

It’s now twelve months since we hosted our biggest ever exhibition, ‘Holy Writ: Modern Jewish, Christian and Islamic calligraphy’, which was seen by more than 20,000 visitors. Some of the finest calligraphers and lettering artists provided their work for the exhibition, and people travelled from Lancashire, Kent and East Anglia in order to see it. Over 2,000 children visited the exhibition as part of ‘Open Door’ and ‘Log on to God.’

Visitors were treated to a range of exhibits displayed in the beautiful surroundings of the Chapter House and the North Quire Aisle, including the spectacular Saint John’s Bible (the only complete Bible to have been entirely written and illuminated by hand in modern times), modern works from the British Museum’s Department of the Middle East, 11th century manuscripts from the British Library, and many more. Holy Writ included sculptures, woodcarvings, digital animations, textile art and two-dimensional work by the likes of Ewan Clayton, Peter Halliday, Mary Noble and Jila Peacock. 

Dramatically displayed in the Nave were banners produced as part of the schools’ project which accompanied the exhibition, and equally striking were the calligraphic columns, also produced by school children. 

More than 100 people participated in a community project by creating fabric squares for the inspirational Multi-Faith textile. 

The lectures and workshops which accompanied the exhibition were thoroughly enjoyed by the many people who attended them. We had a sold-out calligraphy workshop with our Holy Writ curator, Peter Halliday, well-received study sessions with Michelle Brown and Ewan Clayton, and a fantastic Community Art Day. 

If you would like to revisit ‘Holy Writ’, or you missed it, you will be pleased to know that a virtual exhibition is in the process of being prepared by students at South Staffordshire College. Keep looking at the Cathedral website to find out when this will be available online!

Here are just a few of your thoughts on the exhibition:

"A wonderful display of God’s inspiration to people of a common humanity."

"Beautiful words and lovely presentation of an interesting collection of faiths."

"Inspirational!  Spiritually uplifting and such beautiful calligraphy."

"Today has been my fifth visit and I am more in awe each time.  I hope to return at least once more."

"Amazing exhibition. A once in a lifetime experience to view ancient artefacts and the beautifully illustrated manuscripts."

"Stunning, and to be able to see the re-written Bible moved me to tears."

All in all, a great exhibition enjoyed by many!