Cathedral hosts show of sperm whale sculptures

4 days ago

Bob DaleSouth East

Three large sculptures of sperm whales hang from the ceiling of the cathedral, recreating their ocean habitat

Steve Hartridge Three models of sperm whales hang in the nave of Winchester Cathedral, which has been lit in blue to recreate the ocean. — Three large sculptures of sperm whales hang from the ceiling of the cathedral, recreating their ocean habitat

Large models of three sperm whales are hanging from the nave's ceiling in Rochester Cathedral from Tuesday, as part of an award-winning art exhibition.

They are the creation of artist Tessa Campbell Fraser, made using recycled materials such as fishing nets.

The models are 5.2m (17ft), 4.6m (15ft) and 3m (9.8ft) tall, and will be on display until 7 March.

The installation is in Kent after being premiered at Winchester Cathedral.

Tessa Campbell Fraser is the artist who created the models

Tessa Campbell Fraser The artist Tessa Campbell Fraser, a middle-aged blonde woman, wearing a dark top and reaching above her head as she works on one of her pieces about whales. — Tessa Campbell Fraser is the artist who created the models

Sperm whales were almost hunted to extinction in the 19th Century, because the oil their bodies produced was valued so highly.

The installation allows visitors to immerse themselves in the whales' habitat.

It recently won the Association for Heritage Interpretation Engaging People Award for its approach to engaging audiences over climate change issues.

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