In this section, you can find out more about the variety of art movements that are represented within Catholic churches, chapels and cathedrals across the UK. This includes contemporary art, modern art, art associated with the Byzantine Revival and the Arts and Crafts movement, as well as artistic works produced as part of the Gothic Revival. In the individual articles, you can also find out more about the talented artists who have contributed to the beauty of these sacred spaces.
Contemporary art in Catholic churches
Contemporary art is well-represented within the Catholic context in Britain, in a diverse range of forms. This includes stained glass, paintings, sculpture and contemporary iconography. In addition, a number of Catholic churches in the UK are active centres of contemporary art. Discover more
Modern art in Catholic Britain
In the UK, modernist Catholic churches and cathedrals embraced modern art. The development of modern art in Catholic Britain was also influenced by the Guild of Catholic Artists in England, the Glasgow School of Art in Scotland, and the invention of dalle de verre in France. Discover more
Marvellous Mosaics: the art of the Byzantine Revival
The Byzantine Revival was an artistic and architectural approach to church design that resulted in beautiful mosaics. Starting with Westminster Cathedral in London, the revival spread across the UK, bringing a slice of Ravenna or Venice to ordinary English towns and suburbs. Discover more
The Arts and Crafts Movement: a Catholic perspective
Catholic artists such as Christopher Whall and Harry Clarke were later luminaries within the Arts and Crafts movement. Along with the artisans of the Guild of St Joseph and St Dominic, they produced striking, original artwork of a high quality that celebrated the natural world. Discover more
Divine Design: the Gothic Revival and Catholic art
The Gothic Revival movement resulted in the construction of churches and cathedrals that were full of biblical artwork. Its pioneer was the Catholic convert A.W.N. Pugin, who worked with the stained glass firm Hardman & Co. and various Belgian sculptors to adorn over 40 Catholic churches and cathedrals. Discover more