The Words That Bind Us — Now Open at Durham Cathedral
I’m thrilled to announce that The Words That Bind Us is now open to the public at Durham Cathedral.
This new light projection artwork is part of a landmark exhibition marking the 800th anniversary of the 1225 issue of Magna Carta. From 11 July, three rare Magna Cartas from the Cathedral’s collection are on display in the Durham Cathedral Museum. To celebrate this historic moment, the Cathedral has commissioned three artists—including myself—to create bespoke installations throughout the sacred space. Together, these works explore how the Magna Carta’s legacy still resonates today as a powerful symbol of social justice and shared humanity.
The Words That Bind Us is a river of language flowing through the heart of the nave—a conversation across centuries, shaped by contemporary voices and imagined futures. These words, gathered from the public through workshops and contributions, form an evolving tapestry of light that invites reflection on justice, compassion, and community.
The launch was a deeply meaningful evening. We were honoured to be joined by Baroness Hale, former President of the UK Supreme Court, whose rousing opening speech championed the values of equity and diversity at the core of this project. I was moved beyond words by the way her presence gave weight to the artwork’s message.
There were also smaller, quieter moments that I’ll carry with me:
Children spinning and hopping through the projection as if skipping through sunlight on water.
An elderly woman bending down—slowly, deliberately—to cradle the glowing word awe in her hands.
And me, standing back in the shadows on the first public day, simply watching. In that moment, I realised the work had become something else—it now belonged to the people. A gift, handed over.
My heartfelt thanks go to The Very Reverend Dr Philip Plyming, whose reflections on the biblical verse “Let justice roll down like waters” helped shape the emotional current of this piece. His voice has been a vital bridge between Christian values and the Magna Carta’s call for fairness.
I’m also incredibly grateful to curator Jacquiline Creswell for inviting me to be part of Magna Carta and the North, and to the outstanding team at Durham Cathedral, whose support and vision made this work possible.
The exhibition continues through November. I hope you’ll come and walk the river of words—stand within it, listen, reflect, and perhaps find your own truth shimmering in the light.
