Lichfield Cathedral will present a comprehensive exhibition featuring all 42 portraits of English cathedrals captured by the late photographer Peter Marlow. The exhibition, titled "Peter Marlow: The English Cathedral," will run from September 11 to November 2, showcasing the photographer's ambitious project to document every English Anglican cathedral across the country.
The collection originated from Marlow's commission to create images for a set of Royal Mail stamps, which included a photograph of Lichfield Cathedral itself. This initial project inspired the photographer to expand his work into a complete survey of England's cathedral architecture, ultimately resulting in this remarkable 42-piece series that captures the unique character and beauty of each sacred space.
The Right Reverend Jan McFarlane, Dean of Lichfield, emphasized the significance of light in cathedral photography, stating: "One of the many joys of Lichfield Cathedral is the way the light plays through the stained glass, changing the mood and the atmosphere in sometimes dramatic ways. Each cathedral will play with the light in different ways. Each will be equally special and equally sacred. We may not be able to visit all 42 English cathedrals at dawn, but this exhibition encourages us to marvel at these very special places which offer us time to pause and reflect and wonder."
Marlow's photographic process involved extensive preparation and meticulous attention to detail when capturing each cathedral. As part of his methodology, the photographer used Fujifilm FP 100 Instant film to test viewpoints and exposure settings before taking the final photographs. This careful approach ensured that each image in the series would accurately represent the unique lighting conditions and architectural features of every cathedral.
In recognition of Marlow's use of instant film during his creative process, Fujifilm has provided instax cameras and film for visitors to use during the exhibition tour. Guests are encouraged to take their own photographs of the displayed works, creating an interactive and continuously evolving display. These instant images captured by visitors will be incorporated into the exhibition itself and shared on social media platforms, adding a contemporary participatory element to the historical documentation.
Following its presentation at Lichfield Cathedral, "Peter Marlow: The English Cathedral" exhibition will continue its tour to other significant venues. The traveling exhibition is scheduled to move to Southwark Cathedral and Salisbury Cathedral in 2026, allowing visitors at these locations to experience the complete collection and appreciate the photographer's comprehensive documentation of England's cathedral heritage.
