Thomas Monnington: Chapel ceiling
Title: Chapel ceiling
Artist: Thomas Monnington (1902–1976, British)
Location: Mary Harris Memorial Chapel of the Holy Trinity at the University of Exeter (C of E)
Date: 1958
The Mary Harris Chapel is a contemporary and inspirational space, designed by architect Dr E. Vincent Harris (OBE) who presented it to the University in memory of his mother. The light, airy space is decorated with contemporary panelling, unstained glass, a large simple cross on the east wall, and metal and glass altar decorations.
The ceiling is painted with abstract vault patterns designed by Thomas Monnington. His design was inspired by the enduring qualities of simple geometry and light, and visualised as over-lapping webs of light extending into, and partly veiling, the mysteries of space. The Chapel was consecrated by the Lord Bishop of Exeter on 26 June 1958 and declared a Grade II Listed Building at Easter 1988. (Source)
Walter Thomas Monnington studied at the Slade School of Fine Art, winning a scholarship to study Decorative Painting at the British School at Rome in 1922. As part of his post-World War career Monnington taught at Camberwell School of Art in 1947 and Slade Art School in 1967. During this time he held an associate's position and presidency at the Royal Academy and a fellowship at the University College of London.
Further Information
Medium: Egg tempera on wood
Permanent display
See Thomas Monnington’s Mary Harris Memorial Chapel ceiling on the Ecclesiart map here.
Other artworks in churches by Thomas Monnington: Supper at Emmaus, Bolton Parish Church; Stations of the Cross, The Parish Church of St George, Brede, East Sussex.