Saints and Angels

... the great west screen in Coventry Cathedral.

We've had an amazing few hours in and around the Cathedral today (my first visit) and I felt awed by the inspirational artwork from the many great artists who contributed. My favourite is the etched figures of saints and angels on the west window - no ordinary angels these but powerful and fearful figures. (I wonder if David Almond modelled Skellig Michael on the Archangel Michael in the window.) The artist was New Zealand born John Hutton. Not only did he complete the designs but he also undertook all of the engraving. Ten years of dedicated work.

Walking through he ruins of the old cathedral and imagining the damage done by the second world war bombing made me reflect on what a shattering time this must have been for the people of Coventry. Then experiencing the huge Sutherland tapestry, the abstract stained glass and the Jacob Epstein statue on the exterior made this a very memorable day. Altogether a very special place.