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Cathedral hosts show of sperm whale sculptures

Bob DaleSouth East
News imageSimon Newman Three models of sperm whales hang in the nave of Winchester Cathedral, which has been lit in blue to recreate the ocean.Simon Newman
Three large sculptures of sperm whales will hang from the ceiling of the cathedral, recreating their ocean habitat

Large models of three sperm whales will be hang from the nave's ceiling in Rochester Cathedral from Tuesday, as part of an award-winning art exhibition.

They are the creation of artist Tessa Campbell Fraser, made using recycled materials such as fishing nets.

The models are 5.2m (17ft), 4.6m (15ft) and 3m (9.8ft) tall, and will be on display until 7 March.

The installation is coming to Kent after being premiered at Winchester Cathedral.

News imageTessa Campbell Fraser The artist Tessa Campbell Fraser, a middle-aged blonde woman, wearing a dark top and reaching above her head as she works on one of her pieces about whales.Tessa Campbell Fraser
Tessa Campbell Fraser is the artist who created the models

Sperm whales were almost hunted to extinction in the 19th Century, because the oil their bodies produced was valued so highly.

The installation will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the whales' habitat.

It recently won the Association for Heritage Interpretation Engaging People Award for its approach to engaging audiences over climate change issues.

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