Ely: Local artist exhibiting in Ely Cathedral

Kristin VG Bailey’s artwork is celebrating the medieval founder and Abbess, Etheldreda. 

Kristin, a Christian, theology degree student, single mum and artist, said the interpretation came to her after her studies into Celtic Christianity which led her to researching into the founder of the cathedral and the city. 

Titled ‘St Audrey – Eshet Chayil’, from the Hebrew meaning woman of valour, Kristin’s 1x1m painting can be found displayed next to one of her pink cathedrals.  

Kristin said: “I have painted pink Ely Cathedrals for some three years, as a nod to my feminism within my own faith and subsequently, learning about strong faith filled women and their stories whether medieval or modern. 

Kristin, a Christian, theology degree student, single mum and artist, said the interpretation came to her after her studies into Celtic Christianity. (Image: Kristin VG Bailey)

“As a result, I am now embarking on a larger UK wide project entitled ‘Unveiled Faces’ where I plan to research medieval female saints, alongside modern female faith stories and their links to specific UK Cathedrals.” 

Each woman and Saint will be painted in Kristin’s recognisable, stylised method and exhibited alongside a pink representation of their Cathedral.

St Audrey – Eshet Chayil is being exhibited during July and August and can be found in St Etheldreda’s Chapel in Ely Cathedral as part of Ely Cathedrals Etheldreda celebrations.  

You can find more of Kristin’s work on Facebook and Instagram under ‘Notes to Treasure’. 

Ely Cathedral is a Christian Church offering daily worship and a place of prayer and sanctity. It is the seat of the Bishop of Ely and the mother church of over 300 parishes that make up the Diocese of Ely.  

The Cathedral is also a historical monument, built to the glory of God, which welcomes thousands of pilgrims and visitors every year.