Entering the worship area, the immediate visual impact is of the large work of art on the main wall. These three panels, created using applique techniques, are the work of Juliet Hemingray, who specialises in decorative fabrics for Churches and clergy. When it was installed in 2019, it was the largest commission she and her creative team had ever attempted.
With the particular design of the building, there have always been issues with acoustics. Because of the resonances created by the structure, it is admired by musicians but is less helpful for the spoken word, which is critical for worship. Professional advice was for acoustic panels to be installed, which has been done successfully across the rear wall, but a bank of such panels would have done little to enhance the look of the front wall.
Providentially, at the time when we wondered how to proceed, an article about the work of Juliet Hemingray appeared in a Church journal and so she was invited to visit. After a long session of questions and answers about our hopes and requirements, our use of the space and the colours we were using and the atmosphere we were seeking to create, Juliet went away and produced a draft drawing of what might be suitable. After inspecting the draft, apart from a few minor adjustments to details, we were very happy with the way in which she had incorporated into her proposals so much of what she had heard and observed.
It is hard to do justice to the design in a few sentences. As well as the intricacy of the artwork itself (it is well worth going up close to identify the range of materials used and the skills employed) the three panels contain a wide range of Christian symbols and references. There is plenty to engage both eye and mind as you investigate each area of the design and seek to draw from them both the significance of the symbols and the references to events, themes and aspects of faith which are there to be discovered.
It also has a living presence. A sprinkling of rhinestones is incorporated in the design. Depending on where you sit, where the sun is and which lights are switched on, the pattern changes. Sometimes there are none to be seen, sometimes just one and sometimes quite a display. Perhaps it reflects back to you the expectation of surprise that you bring into the place!
Watch this space for a growing collection of closer looks at some of the symbols and themes and references which are displayed in the Triptych.
