Velatae (Veiled)
This series of photographs, capturing veiled statues within the quiet confines of Arundel Cathedral, was made in 2024 during the latter part of Lent. In the Roman Catholic tradition, this time of reflection and penance is marked by the concealment of statues and ornaments, a practice that shrouds the sacred in mystery and invites contemplation.
While the images are rooted in a religious context, the series transcends theological inquiry to probe more universal themes of concealment and visibility. The draped enigmatic forms evoke a sense of absence and presence, prompting us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in what is revealed and what is hidden.
Who decides what we are allowed to see? And why? These questions resonate beyond the cathedral walls, touching on broader societal and cultural practices of censorship and control.
This work was exhibited at the Makers’ Gallery in Lewes, during October 2024,alongside Torz Dallison’s new work, Verso. This exhibition was part of the 2024 Brighton Photo Finge Festival.
Prior to this show, the first realisation of this project was as a concertina photobook. The concertina body is made on purple card, with printed front and end covers. The book is wrapped in a purple velvet bag, matching the cathedral veils:
The sequence of photographs:
