Thomas Merton: An exhibition of photographs

Organised by : Chichester Cathedral

Thomas Merton (19151968) was an American Trappist monk, poet and writer. 

His monastic life centred on prayer, work and silence at the Abbey of Our Lady of Gethsemani in Kentucky, which he entered in 1941. He wrote more than 50 books over 27 years, exploring spirituality, Christian contemplation, prayer, monastic life, peace and Zen Buddhism, alongside many poems.

In 1965, Merton was permitted to live in solitude in the woods near his abbey. Using a camera borrowed from a friend, he took photographs on contemplative walks in the countryside. Shown alongside words from his writings during this period, the images offer a glimpse of his life of prayer and his attentive way of seeing the world.

The exhibition is curated by Esther de Waal, a writer on monastic life, particularly the Benedictine tradition, and Celtic spirituality. She obtained copies of Mertons photographs from the Thomas Merton Archive for her book A Retreat with Thomas Merton. This selection was first exhibited at the University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford. 

Set within the Cathedrals medieval architecture, alongside its twentieth-century religious art and daily rhythm of sung prayer, the exhibition offers an opportunity to pause in the heart of the city. Spend time with Mertons photographs and words, and explore how looking more closely can open up new ways of seeing.

This exhibition is free to attend, donations are welcome, taking place 10 - 13 November: Tuesday, 2.00pm - 4.00pm; Wednesday and Thursday, 10.00am - 4.00pm; and Friday, 10.00am - 1.00pm.

The exhibition is in the Eastern Arm, which is accessed from within the Cathedral.