To celebrate its centenary in 2024, Liverpool Cathedral is proud to present an exciting exhibition by internationally acclaimed British-Indian sculptor Anish Kapoor.
Titled ‘Monadic Singularity’, the unique event runs from August to September and marks Kapoor’s first solo exhibition in a British cathedral and his return to north-west England for a major show in over four decades.
Known for his ability to transform spaces with his thought-provoking installations through the use of innovative materials and forms, Kapoor’s work challenges perceptions and engages viewers’ emotions – and ‘Monadic Singularity’ promises to be no different.
The exhibition design promises an engaging dialogue between contemporary art and the cathedral’s spiritual atmosphere as visitors take a captivating journey through the cathedral’s vast spaces and encounter large-scale installations that contemplate life’s key themes: birth, marriage and death. A highlight will be a large piece displayed in the cathedral’s well, a powerful reminder of our place on earth.
The show begins with a large-scale installation (‘Sectional Body’) that confronts viewers with the smallness of our existence and the finitude of life, while inviting them to enter this visceral unity. Kapoor explores the cycle of life and death, which has a unique relevance within cathedral spaces, where important moments in life such as birth, marriage and death are celebrated.
On a journey through space, ‘Untitled’ questions the concept of time and place. The ‘Non-Object’ (Spire) placed in the chancel is a counterpoint to the ‘Section Body’, which complement each other at either end of the building. Finally leads into the Lady Chapel, where the room’s feminine connotations are reflected in ‘Imminence’ (1999).
To further enhance the experience, the cathedral will host exclusive late-night viewings, with a talk by the exhibition’s curator, Elisa Nocente, as she delves into the exhibition’s key themes and Kapoor’s work.
“Provoking both wonder and unease, Kapoor’s artworks transcend their materiality; we hope they will resonate on a deeply physical and emotional level for our audience.”
Since there is a strictly limited number of late night viewings, visitors can get up close and personal with the artworks without the crowds and experience this extraordinary convergence of art and spirituality.
With a chance to sample wine from Welsford Bistro and take in a bird’s-eye view of the cathedral from Dulverton Bridge, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the artistic atmosphere.
The extraordinary exhibition opens to the public on August 10 and runs until September 15. With its promise of artistic innovation and spiritual exploration, “Monadic Singularity” is poised to be a memorable and inspiring event for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
