Modern Spirit: Studies for Chichester Cathedral

This exhibition brings together a rich selection of the preparatory studies for some of the artworks in the extraordinary collection of modern art assembled by Walter Hussey as Dean of Chichester Cathedral. The variety of designs demonstrates the breadth of the Cathedral’s commissioning ambition.

2025 is the 950th anniversary of the foundation of Chichester Cathedral. Its Norman and Gothic architecture has housed great art and design for nearly 1000 years: from 12^th century Romanesque reliefs depicting the ‘Raising of Lazarus’ to 18^th century neo-classical memorials by John Flaxman. In the 20^th century, the Dean and Chapter took the bold decision to commission modern artists thus cementing its status as a religious centre of art in Britain.