News / Arts
Church ruins to be transformed into art venue
A 24-day, non-stop programme of arts and performances will take place in among the ruins of Temple Church this autumn.
Chicago artist Theaster Gates will turn the bombed-out landmark into Sanctum – a 24-hour continuous art installation with music and spoken word, starting on October 29.
Commissioned as part of the arts programme for Bristol 2015 European Green Capital, Gates will build a temporary structure within the remaining shell of the 13th century church in Temple Garden, behind Victoria Street.
Visitors will be able to visit Sanctum day and night, though capacity will be limited to try and maintain an intimate atmosphere at any one time.
There will be no schedule for the 576-hour programme which will include artwork, soundscapes and gospel choirs.
“Sanctum is a collaboration with the city’s materials, the city’s administrators, the city’s artists and musicians to engage in quietly restorative work and to amplify the city’s unheard voices,” Gates said.
Temple Church was gutted by fire in a Second World War bombing raid 75 years ago and is now a scheduled monument under the care of English Heritage.
Sanctum forms part of the Art Weekender – Bristol & Bath, a three-day celebration of visual arts across both cities involving over 35 arts venues, artist-led projects and activities.
Producers are opening the project up to submissions. To apply, complete the proposal form on the website.
Theaster Gates will give a performance lecture at St George’s to celebrate the opening of Sanctum on Saturday October 31 at 7pm.