Art / News
Work on Sanctum structure begins
The structure that will host Theaster Gates’ 24-day performance art marathon Sanctum is beginning to take shape within the walls of Temple Church, just off Victoria Street.
The concept for the structure follows the Chicago-based artist’s principles of breathing new life into rich historical sites, by using materials and resources which are solely sourced from the local area.
The timbers, bricks, doors and windows which will house Sanctum have all been sourced from former Georgian houses and 19th century sites of labour and worship across Bristol, including the demolished Bristol citadel, former Harris & Co warehouse on Farrs Lane and old chocolate factory in Greenbank, Easton.
A Scheduled Monument in the care of the charity English Heritage, Temple Church is not usually open to the public, and Sanctum will offer a rare chance to step inside the 14th century building whilst enjoying some one the most impressive artistic talent the city has to offer.
Once the 576-hour long performance has come to a close, Theaster Gates plans to take the entire structure and concept to Essen in Germany – a city bombed by the British in the Second World War which will become Bristol’s successor as European Green Capital in 2016.
Temple Church and gardens will be staffed around the clock for 24 days from October 29, with an information desk and food and drink vans forming an outdoor foyer for public.
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