Graffiti art at Canterbury Cathedral divides public opinion
The art installation involves ordinary people posing questions to God
A major new art installation at Canterbury Cathedral in which ordinary people pose questions to God has split public opinion ahead of its official launch.
Visitors have reported visceral reactions to the bold graffiti-style graphics and thought-provoking questions displayed on the ancient walls.
Whilst many have reported their delight and intrigue, others have been discomforted by encountering the artworks.
The "Hear Us" installation which officially opens this Friday 17 October is the culmination of poet Alex Vellis, curator Jacquiline Creswell, and a team of skilled artists.
Running until January 2026, the installation aims to highlight the voices of marginalised communities.
Featuring questions including “Are you there?”, “Why did you create hate when love is by far more powerful?” and “Does everything have a soul?”, the graffiti in Canterbury Cathedral is a vibrant handwritten literature responding to the question “What would you ask God?”.
The temporary graffiti-style imagery also speaks to the great variety of historical graffiti within the Cathedral, including masons’ marks, religious graffiti in the form of crosses and Christograms, and marks made throughout the centuries by pilgrims and other visitors.
However, some have expressed strong reaction against the installation:
“I think it’s sacrilegious” said one Cathedral visitor, whilst another wondered whether the graffiti images made parts of the historic site “look like an underground car park in Peckham”.
Others though were quick to speak of their admiration for the installation, its artistry, and emotional punch.
“There is a rawness which is magnified by the graffiti style which is disruptive” said David Monteith, Dean of Canterbury, recognising the potential for “Hear Us” to divide opinion.
“This graffiti makes me wonder why I am not always able to be as candid, not least in my prayers."
"This exhibition intentionally builds bridges between cultures, styles and genres and in particular allows us to receive the gifts of younger people who have much to say and from whom we need to hear much.”
“Hear Us” officially opens on Friday 17th October 2025 and runs until 18 January 2026.
A special programme of events will complement the free-to-view* installation, including an artist’s talk, historic graffiti tours, Mini Talks and family-friendly graffiti-themed activities.
Find out more at www.canterbury-cathedral.org/hear-us.