New exhibition on faith to open at Bradford Cathedral

Photographer Kate Abbey, who has been an artist-in-residence at Bradford Cathedral for 18 months, is launching her exhibition ‘As we journey together: an exploration of faith in Bradford’ on Saturday.

The exhibition, which is running until July 30, features portraits of people from a diverse range of religious communities and aims to tell their stories through photography.

Kate began her project in October 2020, and initially found things difficult due to lockdown, but later met members of the Cathedral’s congregation in parks, then gardens and finally their homes.

As her residency progressed and the work deepened, the project expanded, exploring other faiths as well as personal spirituality.

Eeshar Singh, photographed by Kate Abbey as part of the exhibition

“As part of the portrait process, I interviewed the sitters to learn more about their specific religions and their personal journey - this created a deeper understanding between us,” said Kate.

“It was always important to show each sitter’s home within the portraits, as there is so much we can learn from their personal landscape.

“I want the viewer to recognise themselves in the images, as well as appreciate the differences.

Suzie Cree is photographed in her home

“Although each sitter is alone, they are not isolated, whether it be with their god, with myself taking the shots or together with the other portraits in the exhibition.

“It allowed me an insight into their beliefs, and unexpectedly raised questions around my own spiritual journey and perception of faith.”

Mohammed Iftikar prays in his home as Kate Abbey captures the moment

Alongside the photographs – which will be displayed between the pillars of Bradford Cathedral’s nave – visitors to the exhibition will also be able to hear from the sitters themselves through a special audio recording.

Manoj Joshi, a prominent member of Bradford’s Hindu community, was one of the people photographed for the exhibition.

Manoj Joshi had his portrait taken as part of the project

"It was a sheer joy to participate in Kate Abbey's exhibition,” he said.

“Hopefully, it will inform and inspire all faiths to live together in harmony.”

Bhavna Joshi, Manoj's wife, was also photographed

Dr Javed Bashir, a safeguarding consultant who works closely with places of worship across the district, added: “Kate Abbey has done a great job and it’s great to see all of Bradford's faith communities being represented.

“This will help to promote Bradford as a City of Culture and develop people's understanding of different faiths, which ultimately will result in better understanding, appreciation and cohesion.”

Hilary Greaves also had her portrait taken for the exhibition