A new artwork by Nicola Anthony will illuminate the largest Anglican cathedral ever built
Metamorphosis explores Liverpool’s rich history and evolution
Liverpool Cathedral is set to be illuminated as a 40-metre-tall light artwork created by the artist Nicola Anthony. Titled Metamorphosis, the monumental light projection will see the cathedral’s facade become a canvas from 6:30 PM until 10:30 PM on November 11th, as a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit.
The award-winning international sculptor will present a piece where typographic structures and technological light projections are intertwined with tradition. She has taken her theme from a quote found in Kafka’s novel of the same title. Anthony’s work delves into the complexities of Liverpool’s character, legacy, and evolution. As the world faces unprecedented change, the artwork seeks inspiration from the city’s intricate layers, revealing the vulnerability and strength inherent in its transformation.
Liverpool Cathedral is a crucial project partner, playing a pivotal role alongside project sponsors WSP Engineers, Martin Professional, and GoboPlus in making this significant project a reality. The Cathedral is home to a number of paintings and sculptures crafted by renowned modern and contemporary artists including Elisabeth Frink, Christopher Le Brun, and Adrian Wiszniewski. Cultural Programme Manager Elisa Nocente leads on the cathedral’s contemporary art programme including commissions, installations and cultural events and collaborations with partners in the city and beyond.
Anthony’s work has been acquired by museums, NGOs, and both public and private collections around the world. Her work focuses on revealing our inner humanity, and drawing threads of connection between people from all walks of life. Notable institutions where her work is permanently hosted include Steven Spielberg’s USC Shoah Foundation in Los Angeles, Galway University in Ireland, The Ingram Collection of British Art, and the Singapore Art Museum. As a British Anglo-Indian artist, her research consistently centers on exposing inequality and understanding the experience of otherness. This makes Liverpool an incredible site for her work and one which Anthony has often been inspired by: a place which has led the way in the UK on delving deeper, understanding and addressing our colonial past, and working together on a shared future.
The Dean of Liverpool, The Very Revd Dr Sue Jones said of the upcoming artwork:
“Liverpool Cathedral is one of Liverpool’s most photographed and iconic buildings a backdrop to the city scape. We are pleased to be able to use this for creative art projects. Our cathedral is a great supporter of art projects that connect with the people of the city alongside our incredible collection of artwork. I look forward to seeing this projection”
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For more information, visuals and interviews please contact:
Info@nicolaanthony.co.uk
07859 730111
About Liverpool Cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral is the largest Anglican cathedral ever built. Its construction over 74 years (despite two world wars and the depressions of 1930s and 1970s) is an extraordinary achievement which speaks volumes for the spirit and determination of local people. Based on the designs of architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in the Gothic Revival style, the cathedral was constructed between 1904 and 1978. The cathedral is a Grade I listed building which is free to enter and is open to the public 365 days a year, with three services per day, seven days a week.
About Nicola Anthony FRSA., MRSS. (b. 1984) British Anglo-Indian sculptor challenging the status quo and elevating unheard voices through her public artworks globally. Working with museums and NGOs internationally, one of her most noteworthy sculptures hangs at Steven Spielberg’s USC Shoah Foundation in Los Angeles, and Spielberg himself commented that her art “plumbs the depths of my soul”. She is currently working on a large permanent sculpture for the National University of Ireland and a showcase in Miami this December.
Nicola’s sculptures tell powerful stories, light up buildings with messages, or sneak guerilla style into unsuspecting spaces. Notable exhibitions include a solo exhibition at Singapore Art Museum, a showcase at Kuala Lumpur Biennale, and a residency at the British Pavilion in Dubai.
Nicola is a diversity champion, an arts trustee, a mentor to young artists, and a collector of sound recordings which she captures in spaces of awe. Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, member of the Royal Society of Sculptors, alumni of University of the Arts London and Loughborough University.
