A new graffiti exhibition at Canterbury Cathedral has been branded ‘sacrilegious’ by worshippers, with one comparing the historic church to ‘an underground car park in Peckham.’ The installation, titled ‘Hear Us,’ invites visitors to pose questions to God, which are then plastered in graffiti-style lettering on pillars, walls, and floors throughout the ancient building.
While some have expressed intrigue, many worshippers have taken offence. One critic described the work as ‘sacrilegious,’ while another said it was more suited to a south London car park. Others asked, ‘who will rid me of these troublesome graphics?’ and ‘how do people not tire of the cringe?’ Another questioned: ‘This is awful. Canterbury Cathedral, what are you doing?’
The temporary artwork features answers to the question ‘What would you ask God?’ including ‘Are you there?’ and ‘Why did you create hate when love is by far more powerful?’ The graffiti-style imagery has been added alongside the cathedral’s historic graffiti, which includes ancient makers marks dating back centuries.
Organisers hope the contrast between the ancient architecture and contemporary messaging will spark conversations. David Monteith, Dean of Canterbury, acknowledged the potential for division, stating: ‘There is a rawness which is magnified by the graffiti style which is disruptive. There is also an authenticity in what is said because it is unfiltered.’ He added that the exhibition ‘intentionally builds bridges between cultures, styles and genres.’
The piece is the work of poet Alex Vellis and curator Jacquiline Creswell, in collaboration with marginalised communities and a team of artists. Vellis said: ‘Language is the people who speak it, and graffiti is the language of the unheard. By temporarily graffitiing the inside of Canterbury Cathedral, we join a chorus of the forgotten, the lost, and the wondrous.’ The exhibition runs from October 17 to January 18, 2026.
