Bristol Cathedral announces major new permanent artwork to respond Colston window
A new permanent artwork at Bristol Cathedral addresses the historical significance of the former Colston window, offering a fresh perspective on the city's journey towards inclusivity.
The new artwork, Let There Be Light, has been commissioned to mark a significant step in the Cathedral’s continuing work to engage openly with its history and to reflect the diversity of the city it serves.
The contemporary stained-glass piece will combine abstract and figurative elements to reflect history, resilience and hope, alongside African and African-Caribbean patterns and symbols that give visibility to previously marginalised voices.
It will be created by Swedish-Nigerian artist Joseph Ijoyemi, a London-based artist whose work explores heritage, migration, identity, and social history.
He is a Central Saint Martins MA Fine Art graduate (2023), has received the Helen Scott Lidgett Award, been shortlisted for the Evening Standard Prize, and exhibited in New Contemporaries 2023.
His practice spans community projects, installations, sculpture, and sound art, creating immersive experiences that reimagine African and Afro-Caribbean histories.
Talking about Let There Be Light, Joseph Ijoyemi said: “I am honoured to be selected and to be part of this huge project.
“Working with the Cathedral, local communities and the stained glass team makes this project feel rooted.
“As an artist Let There Be Light brings together my faith and my practice.
“It is about shining light on Black history in Bristol, holding space for truth and reflection, and thinking about how we move forward with care for future generations.”