As part of its centenary celebrations in 2024, Liverpool Cathedral is set to host a landmark exhibition by internationally acclaimed sculptor Anish Kapoor. This “Monadic Singularity” event marks the first time Kapoor will present a solo exhibition in a UK cathedral, bringing his extraordinary art to Liverpool for the first time in over 40 years. The last time his work was showcased in the city was at the Walker Art Gallery in 1983.
Kapoor, known for his iconic works like Cloud Gate in Chicago and the Orbit Tower at the Olympic Stadium in London, is regarded as one of our time’s most innovative and influential artists. The “Monadic Singularity” exhibition will be staged within the spiritual context of Liverpool Cathedral, the UK’s largest cathedral, providing a profound backdrop for Kapoor’s thought-provoking art. Visitors will journey through the Cathedral’s spaces, encountering a large-scale installation in the Well, a reminder of human existence on Earth, a wax sculpture in the Main Space, and other works displayed in the Lady Chapel.
The exhibition will feature pieces created over the past 25 years, some of which have never been displayed in the UK. This event is poised to enrich Liverpool’s artistic heritage, offering a rare opportunity to experience the work of one of the world’s most notable and inspiring artists. As part of the celebration, the Cathedral will also host exclusive late-night openings, including tours up the Tower and refreshments from the Welsford Bistro.
“Monadic Singularity” highlights Liverpool Cathedral’s centenary events, including a People’s Service in July to commemorate its 100th anniversary of its consecration in 1924.
The Very Rev’d Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, expressed her excitement for the exhibition, stating, “As we celebrate 100 years since this Cathedral was consecrated for prayer and worship, it is great to welcome an iconic artist to our iconic building. The Cathedral speaks of itself as a place of Encounter, and we hope that people will come and encounter the art of Anish Kapoor in our magnificent space.”
Paul Smith, Director of Enterprise at Liverpool Cathedral, highlighted the significance of bringing Kapoor’s work to Liverpool during this milestone year. “In the last five or six years, we’ve worked very hard to bring an exciting array of cultural programming to the Cathedral. For 2024, our centenary year, we wanted to take the programme up a notch or two and bring one of the world’s most significant contemporary artists here to say a massive thank you to our worshippers and visitors.”
The exhibition is made possible through the support of Culture Liverpool, the Liverpool BID Company, Lisson Gallery, and Boodles, with additional backing from the Granada Foundation and anonymous supporters.
Claire McColgan CBE, Director of Culture Liverpool, praised the collaboration, stating, “Over the past few years, it has been fantastic to see how Liverpool Cathedral has solidified its reputation as a venue to showcase the work of some of the world’s most respected artists in a unique and unforgettable way. Culture Liverpool is delighted to partner with the Cathedral team to secure this culturally significant Anish Kapoor exhibition, which will be a huge coup for the city.”
The “Monadic Singularity” exhibition opens to the public on Saturday, August 10th, and runs until Sunday, September 15th. Tickets are available for exclusive late-night viewings on Thursday, August 15th, and Thursday, August 22nd, offering a unique opportunity to experience this extraordinary convergence of art and spirituality in one of the UK’s most beautiful buildings.
Top Photo: Sectional Body Preparing for Monadic Singularity, 2015 P.V.C, steel 7.3 x 7.3 x 7.3 m Photo: D.Saulnier Interior view: Jonathan Leijonhufvud © Anish Kapoor. All rights reserved, DACS 2024 – Liverpool Cathedral celebrates 100th anniversary with Anish Kapoor Exhibition.
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