Benedictine Art Project

Norwich Cathedral's beginnings as a Benedictine monastery continue to inspire life at the Cathedral in the 21st century, and this open-air exhibition explores the Cathedral's Benedictine heritage past and present.

Three artists have teamed up with three local charities to create the artworks, which reflect the Benedictine themes of healing and wholeness, hospitality and contemplative learning. The works are sited in the Cloister, outside the Hostry, and in Almary Green.

In Almary Green, close to the Ethelbert Gate, a large abstract recreation of the Church of St Ethelbert also carries a reminder of the cloak of St Martin. It has been created by artist Hardy Gru in collaboration with St Martins Housing Trust, a Norwich-based charity which aims to help the homeless build a better life in Norwich and Norfolk.

Outside the Hostry, two old doors have been transformed into a tabletop covered with plates featuring recipes from around the world. The Hospitality of Abraham was the idea of artist Deborah Tompsett, who has worked with English+, a Norwich-based charity helping those who are starting new lives in the city.

Completing the trio is The Light Comes from All Sides, an installation in the Cloister created by artist Lily Bunney. Ancient book cupboards, once used by the Benedictine monks, have been decorated with stained glass inspired by the Cloister and the medieval roof bosses which adorn the ancient architecture.