The city of Norwich has been gifted a breathtaking new artwork, HIDDEN, created by the renowned sculptor Peter Walker. Suspended high above the nave of St Peter Mancroft Church, this stunning installation is a masterpiece of shimmering textiles and light, spanning an impressive 6.3 meters across. As visitors gaze up at the sculpture, they are invited to ponder the question: what lies beneath the surface? This thought-provoking work is not just a beautiful addition to the church, but a contemplative space that encourages reflection and self-discovery. The artwork is a generous gift to the city, commissioned by the church to explore themes of identity, perspective, and the untold stories that surround us.
As one approaches the sculpture, they are met with six illuminated faces, each revealing intricate patterns and designs that seem to dance across the fabric. Sacred geometry, natural forms, and human figures all blend together in a mesmerizing display that invites the viewer to look beyond the surface level. The sculptor, Peter Walker, explains that HIDDEN is about uncovering the hidden aspects of ourselves and those around us. By creating a space that encourages not just looking, but reflection, Walker hopes that visitors will uncover and share their own hidden stories, memories, and moments. The artwork is accompanied by its own music, adding an extra layer of depth and emotion to the experience. As with the highly successful Gaia installation that was previously displayed at St Peter Mancroft, HIDDEN is a large-scale work that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who see it.
The community has been at the heart of this project from the very beginning. Over the past few months, teams from St Peter Mancroft have worked tirelessly with local schools, care homes, and charities to gather creative responses to the sculpture. These responses, which take the form of writing, art, music, and spoken word, will be exhibited alongside the sculpture throughout the summer, providing a unique insight into the thoughts and feelings of the community. A larger curated show will take place in September, and the best of the collection will be published in a book before Christmas, providing a lasting legacy of the project. This approach has not only helped to foster a sense of connection and ownership among the community but has also ensured that the artwork is truly representative of the people it serves.
The Revd Edward Carter, Vicar of St Peter Mancroft, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that the church commissioned HIDDEN to offer something extraordinary – a space for reflection, imagination, and connection. The hope is that the artwork will speak to everyone who walks through the church doors, regardless of their background or beliefs. By providing a space that is both beautiful and thought-provoking, the church aims to create a sense of community and shared experience among all who visit. As the sculpture suspended above, HIDDEN seems to embody the very spirit of the church, offering a symbol of hope, reflection, and connection in the heart of the city.
The creation of HIDDEN has been made possible thanks to the generous support of several organizations, including Arts Council England, the Garfield Weston Foundation, The Geoffrey Watling Charity, and The Risebrow Trust. Their contributions have enabled the church to bring this ambitious project to life, providing a unique and unforgettable experience for the people of Norwich. As the city continues to evolve and grow, HIDDEN serves as a reminder of the importance of art and culture in our lives. By providing a space for contemplation and reflection, the sculpture offers a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life, inviting visitors to slow down, look within, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them.
As the people of Norwich and beyond come to experience HIDDEN, they will undoubtedly be struck by the sheer scale and beauty of the sculpture. However, it is the deeper message and meaning behind the artwork that will truly leave a lasting impression. By encouraging visitors to look beyond the surface level and explore the hidden aspects of themselves and those around them, HIDDEN offers a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and connection in our lives. As Peter Walker so eloquently puts it, the sculpture is an invitation to “uncover and share something of our own – a hidden story, a memory, a moment.” As the city comes together to experience HIDDEN, it is clear that this breathtaking artwork will be a source of inspiration, comfort, and connection for years to come.
