Canterbury Cathedral is hosting a unique art exhibition titled “Hear Us,” which features bold, graffiti-style questions to God displayed on its ancient walls. The installation, created in collaboration with marginalized communities, aims to spark conversations about faith, doubt, and spirituality. Visitors are invited to ponder profound questions such as “Are you there?”, “Why did you create hate when love is more powerful?”, and “Does everything have a soul?”.
The exhibition’s curator, Jacquiline Creswell, and poet Alex Vellis, who identify as an “agender goblin” and “queer vegan,” designed the project to give voice to those often unheard in conventional religious discourse. By posing questions directly to God, the installation encourages visitors to reflect on their beliefs and values. According to the Dean of Canterbury, David Monteith, the exhibition “intentionally builds bridges between cultures, styles, and genres,” allowing for a more nuanced exploration of spirituality.
The “Hear Us” exhibition has sparked intense debate, with some critics labeling it “sacrilegious” and others praising its thought-provoking nature. US Vice President JD Vance and entrepreneur Elon Musk have publicly criticized the installation, with Vance calling it “ugly” and Musk describing it as “shameful”. Despite the backlash, the cathedral has reported a range of reactions, from admiration to discomfort, highlighting the complex role of sacred spaces in contemporary society.
The exhibition’s use of temporary, removable graffiti-style art emphasizes respect for the cathedral’s heritage while fostering a conversation on faith that resonates with modern audiences. By engaging with marginalized communities and providing a platform for diverse voices, the “Hear Us” exhibition embodies a modern form of prayer and inquiry, reflective of the dynamic and evolving nature of faith.
