Chancellors Autumn Lectures 2026: The Sacred and Place

As part of the Chancellors annual Autumn Lectures, this years series explores the rich interplay between art and faith.Building on Chichester Cathedrals long tradition of engaging with sacred art, these lectures will reflect on how artists across the centuries - from the creators of early icons to modern figures such as celebrated artist and printmaker John Piper - have sought to express the divine through colour, form, and imagination.Together, the lectures invite us to consider how sacred images speak into our lives today: how they illuminate scripture, shape worship, deepen our sense of place, and prompt us to see the world anew.About this lectureThe John Piper tapestry (loved by many though not by all!) in the sanctuary of Chichester Cathedral is one the most striking features of our rich heritage of art and aesthetics.

The Canon Treasurer - and curator of the current Piper Exhibition - will introduce the tapestry and its artist, and discuss its origins, symbolism, and sometimes controversial reception in this history of this place.Reverend Vanessa Baron has strategic responsibility for the care and interpretation of the Cathedrals fabric and treasures as Canon Treasurer.

She read philosophy at London City University and has an MA in Mediaeval History.

She was among the very first cohort of women to be ordained priest in the Diocese of London in 1994.