Whales opens at Rochester Cathedral

An awe-inspiring art installation has opened at Rochester Cathedral. Whales features three majestic sperm whales suspended in the Nave. The thought-provoking, award-winning artwork was created by artist Tessa Campbell Fraser in partnership with MESSUMS ORG.

The installation invites visitors to step into the world of whales. At the same time, it encourages reflection on humanity’s growing impact on the global climate. Recently, Whales won first prize in the AHI Engaging People Award for its powerful response to the climate emergency. Notably, the artist created the sculptures using recycled ghost netting, silk chiffon and latex.

A Powerful Environmental Message

Through her work, Tessa Campbell Fraser highlights the urgent need to protect marine life. By sculpting the whales in transparent ghost netting, she symbolises their fragile future. She explains:

“By sculpting the whales transparently using ghost netting, I want to highlight the urgent need for action. Without immediate steps to reduce global warming and plastic pollution, these magnificent mammals may disappear from our world. Rising sea temperatures disrupt the ecological balance, while plastic pollution threatens their survival. Without change, these creatures risk becoming ghosts in our oceans.”

Continuing a Celebrated Arts Programme

Importantly, Whales forms part of Rochester Cathedral’s growing programme of large-scale art installations. It follows the success of Luke Jerram’s Mars and the Short Scion Floatplane, both of which attracted record audiences in 2025.

The Dean of Rochester, The Very Rev’d Dr Philip Hesketh AKC DL, expressed his enthusiasm:

“We are excited to welcome this dramatic installation to the Cathedral. We hope it inspires a positive response and encourages people to care for our planet and its biodiversity.”

Similarly, Canon Dr Ruth Valerio reflected on the Cathedral’s mission:

“The Cathedral inspires worship of the God who created this world. We hope Whales reminds visitors that our blue planet should be treasured, loved and respected.”

Events and Activities

Alongside the installation, the Cathedral will host a programme of sea-inspired events and activities. These include concerts and family experiences. Highlights feature the return of the BBC Big Band, an evening of Sea Shanties, and special Whales After Dark events. However, tickets are limited and are available exclusively via the Rochester Cathedral website.

Visiting Information

Visitors can view Whales free of charge during daytime hours. However, charges apply for groups, schools and special events. In addition, on selected evenings, guests can experience the installation in a striking new light after dark.

Rochester Cathedral has thanked Chatham Maritime Trust for supporting the exhibition.

Whales runs from 10th February to 7th March 2026.

To find out more, visit:
www.rochestercathedral.org/whales

You can also stay up to date with articles, news and publications by following Rochester Cathedral on social media.