Imagine strolling through the historic grounds of Norwich Cathedral, surrounded by ancient architecture and contemporary sculpture, as the city’s rich cultural heritage comes alive in a unique outdoor art exhibition. “Art in the Close” is a groundbreaking event that will transform the Cathedral Close into a vibrant showcase of creativity, featuring an exciting mix of works by renowned artists Lynn Chadwick and John Maine. From September 2025 to Spring 2026, visitors of all ages can explore this free open-air exhibition, which promises to inspire and delight. The exhibition is divided into three areas: the Lower Close, the Cloister, and Almary Green, each offering a distinct and immersive experience. In the Lower Close, visitors can discover Lynn Chadwick’s striking steel sculpture, “Sitting Figures,” while the Cloister will host two of John Maine’s impressive stone works, accompanied by a further seven sculptures in Almary Green.
The idea behind “Art in the Close” is the brainchild of the Dean of Norwich, the Very Revd Dr. Andrew Braddock, who aims to create a unique and thought-provoking experience that celebrates the city’s long history of artistic expression. By combining ancient architecture with contemporary sculpture, the exhibition invites visitors to see the world through fresh eyes, fostering a sense of wonder and reflection. As the Dean notes, “The Cathedral itself is a place of international cultural significance, offering a rich treasure trove of artistic work from architecture and sculpture to embroidery, paintings, and glass, as well as its outstanding musical heritage.” With “Art in the Close,” the Cathedral continues its tradition of celebrating the arts, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with the community.
John Maine, a member of the Cathedral’s Fabric Advisory Committee, is thrilled to be part of this innovative project. His sculptures, carefully placed throughout the Cathedral Close, are designed to interact with the surrounding space, creating a sense of dialogue between art, architecture, and nature. Maine’s works, such as “Pinnacle” and “Definition in Five Parts,” are meant to be experienced on a human scale, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the relationship between the sculptures and their surroundings. As Maine explains, “The distance between these works is part of their story: the space around a sculpture is integral.” By presenting his sculptures in this unique context, Maine aims to highlight the intersection of ancient and contemporary, revealing the timeless beauty of the Cathedral and its surroundings.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the juxtaposition of John Maine’s stone sculptures with Lynn Chadwick’s stainless steel work, “Sitting Figures.” This striking sculpture, on loan from the Estate of Lynn Chadwick, adds a touch of modernity to the historic setting, its angular lines and metallic surfaces playing with light and shadow. The contrast between the ancient stone of the Cathedral and the contemporary materials used in the sculptures creates a fascinating visual tension, inviting visitors to contemplate the relationship between past and present. As visitors wander through the exhibition, they will discover a rich tapestry of artistic expression, from the intricate details of the Cathedral’s architecture to the bold, modern statements of the sculptures.
As “Art in the Close” unfolds, the Cathedral will offer a range of resources to enhance the visitor experience. A £2 guide will be available for purchase from the Cathedral Shop, providing insights into the artists, their works, and the inspiration behind the exhibition. The Cathedral’s website will also feature updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and interviews with the artists, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the world of “Art in the Close.” Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique and inspiring experience, “Art in the Close” is an event not to be missed. As the Dean of Norwich notes, “In the conjunction of art, space, and Cathedral, we are invited to see life through fresh eyes, just as the Cathedral itself invites us to nurture a sense of wonder in a place where heaven and earth come close.”
As the exhibition comes to life, the Cathedral Close will be transformed into a vibrant and dynamic space, where art, history, and nature converge. “Art in the Close” is a celebration of creativity, a testament to the power of art to inspire, provoke, and delight. By bringing together ancient architecture and contemporary sculpture, the exhibition creates a unique and unforgettable experience, one that will linger in the minds and hearts of visitors long after they leave the Cathedral grounds. As the city of Norwich looks to the future, “Art in the Close” is a shining example of its commitment to artistic expression, community engagement, and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Whether you are a local or a visitor, “Art in the Close” is an invitation to explore, discover, and be inspired by the beauty and creativity that surrounds us.
