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The Transformation Power of Art

Guildford Cathedral is inviting the community to discover Transformations, a thought-provoking exhibition of artwork created by men in HMP Coldingley, exploring the transformative power of art and its ability to inspire hope, reflection, wellbeing and personal change.

Running from 8 September to 19 October 2026, the exhibition brings together powerful works created within a prison environment and invites visitors to consider what creativity can reveal about ourselves and others.

Transformative Power of Art

On Monday 12 October 2026, from 6.00pm to 8.00pm, the Cathedral will host Transformative Power of Art, an evening of conversation and reflection bringing together faith leaders, prison practitioners and charity representatives.

Inspired by the artwork in Transformations, the panel will explore how artistic expression can foster dignity, rehabilitation and hope, and how creativity can contribute to positive change both within prison and beyond.

Moderated by The Very Reverend Bob Cooper, Dean of Guildford, the panel will include:

  • The Very Reverend Bob Cooper, Dean of Guildford, Moderator
  • Dez Brown, Trustee, Prison Fellowship
  • Alex Day, Chaplain, HMP Coldingley
  • Theresa Chambers-Blaney    Former Deputy Education Manager and Art Tutor HMP Coldingley 

The discussion will consider the role of creativity in personal reflection, identity and transformation, as well as the ways in which partnerships between the arts, charities, faith communities and the prison system can contribute to rehabilitation, restoration and social renewal.

Taking place during Prisons Week, the evening will also provide an opportunity to engage with wider questions around justice, redemption, community and second chances, with perspectives from those working directly in prison ministry and rehabilitation.

Whether visitors have a professional interest in criminal justice, a passion for the arts, an interest in the themes of Prisons Week or simply a curiosity about the capacity of creativity to change lives, all are warmly invited to take part.

The Very Reverend Bob Cooper, Dean of Guildford, said:

"The Transformations exhibition reminds us that every person has inherent dignity and the capacity for change. Art has a remarkable ability to open conversations, encourage reflection and inspire hope. We look forward to welcoming people from across our community to experience the exhibition and explore these themes together."

About the exhibition

Transformations showcases artwork created by men in HMP Coldingley and highlights the profound impact that creative expression can have on prisoners, their families and the wider community.

Creating art within a prison environment presents unique challenges, but the works in the exhibition demonstrate the possibilities that emerge when people are given opportunities for creativity, reflection and self-expression.

By bringing these works into the Cathedral, Transformations invites the wider community to encounter the artists through their creativity and to reflect on questions of human dignity, forgiveness, hope and transformation.

Exhibition details | Transformations
Dates: Tuesday 8 September to Monday 19 October 2026
Venue: Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford, GU2 7UP
Opening hours: Daily from 8.00am to 6.00pm, with extended opening until 7.30pm on Thursdays
Admission: Free. All are welcome.

Panel discussion details

Transformative Power of Art
Date: Monday 12 October 2026
Time: 6.00pm to 8.00pm
Venue: Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford, GU2 7UP
Tickets: £5 per adult. Students and unwaged visitors are free. Children under five are free.
Booking: Book tickets for Transformative Power of Art