21st October to 15th February at Canterbury Cathedral
Cross-Currents: Life as Journey at Canterbury Cathedral
Until 15 February 2025
Artist: Frances Carlile
Curated by: Jacquiline Creswell
Canterbury Cathedral has for centuries been the focus of pilgrimages and journeys started in hope and faith. The Cathedral is now hosting an exhibition of a fleet of countless ephemeral vessels. Cross-Currents is an installation of hundreds of beautiful, delicate hand-crafted boats embarked on their own journey through the vast architecture of Canterbury Cathedral, each fragile boat symbolizing the transient passage of the life of an individual.
These beautiful and fragile hand-crafted boats serve as a powerful metaphor for the impermanence of life and human vulnerability. Participating in the creative process is very much a part of this exhibition; visitors and the community will have an opportunity to participate in the Cross-Currents
voyage through the practice of creating a boat themselves to accompany the fleet.
In an ecclesiastical setting, Cross-Currents prompts contemplation on the shared experiences of seeking sanctuary, embarking on spiritual quests, and navigating the unpredictable waters of life. These painstakingly-crafted magical creations remind us of the fragility of life itself. The ephemeral nature of the boats displayed, created from materials collected from the forest floor and along our coastline, reminds us of the impermanence of our earthly existence. Like boats adrift on the sea, we navigate the unpredictable currents of life, seeking stability and purpose amidst the waves. The exhibition prompts us to reflect on our own journey through life and the choices we make along the way, inviting us to consider the human cost of displacement and the importance of offering assistance or sanctuary to those we meet on their journey. As we all take a path toward deeper connection with the divine, we are reminded of our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of all beings.
Find out more at www.canterbury-cathedral.org/cross-currents
*This exhibition is included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends Card. Children aged 17 and under go free (T&Cs apply).
Pricing Information
*This exhibition is included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends Card. Children aged 17 and under go free (T&Cs apply).