An exhibition is currently on display in Bath Abbey until 6 February in the newly restored east end of the church. The exhibition features a collection of diptychs (double panels of artwork) that depict stories from the Bible about Christ’s early years, exploring the theme of Epiphany.
The diptychs exhibition, ‘Hope for the Nations’, will include a series of beautifully hand-crafted work that has been created especially for the Abbey by Bath-based artist Sue Symons. Each diptych will comprise one panel of calligraphy, with beautifully illustrated verses from the Bible, and an adjacent textile panel.
Bath Abbey’s Missioner, Revd Stephen Girling, who curated the exhibition, said: “We’re delighted to see a selection of our Bath Abbey Diptychs back in the Abbey again. This exhibition of selected Abbey Diptychs, explores the theme of Epiphany. From Christmas to early February Christians around the world celebrate the season of Epiphany. Over a six week period we explore how Jesus Christ is a manifestation of God. Through his appearance to the three Kings, his teaching, his miracles and his baptism we see Christ embodying the life of God.
As visitors enjoy these remarkable images in this new year, we invite them to join their thoughts and prayers with ours, that the example and life of Jesus Christ might be the ‘Hope for The Nations’. Visitors are invited to light a candle in the Abbey as a prayerful expression of this hope.”
This is not the first time that Bath Abbey has exhibited a collection of diptychs by Sue Symons. The Abbey’s first collection was received in 2007 and titled ‘One Man’s Journey to Heaven’ comprising 35 diptychs illustrating the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It has been proven to be very popular with the Abbey’s congregation and visitors alike with diptych merchandise a best seller in the Abbey’s shop.
The exhibition is free; visitors are invited to make a donation at the door when they enter the Abbey.
