Welcome to Scott Season…
As we mark the centenary of Liverpool Cathedral’s consecration in 1924, we are excited to celebrate the genius of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the architect behind this iconic building. His neo-Gothic masterpiece has stood as a symbol of Liverpool’s heritage and architectural grandeur for a century, and to honour his remarkable legacy, we are hosting a series of special events throughout October and November.
These events will explore Scott’s work, both in Liverpool and beyond, and reflect on the impact of his designs on the architectural landscape of the 20th century and the ongoing challenges of preserving his creations in the modern era.
Here’s a look at the upcoming events celebrating the life and work of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott:
Tuesday, November 5 | Sir Giles Gilbert Scott: A Liverpool Legacy
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the design and construction of Liverpool Cathedral, and how it fits into the broader urban environment of 20th-century Liverpool. This event will delve into the challenges of maintaining such a vast and historic building while preserving the architectural legacy of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott.
Speakers:
- Dr Ataa Alsalloum, Senior Lecturer in Architecture and Urban Heritage, Liverpool School of Architecture
- Mike Darwell, Cathedral Architect
- Joseph Sharples, Architectural Historian
Moderator:
- Dominic Wilkinson, Principal Lecturer in Architecture, Art & Design, Liverpool John Moores University
This ‘in conversation’ event will offer insights into the Cathedral’s enduring significance, its ongoing preservation, and the challenges of maintaining a building of such historic value.
Friday, November 8 | Sir Giles Gilbert Scott: National Icons and Modern Challenges
This panel discussion will explore some of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott’s most iconic buildings beyond Liverpool, including the redeveloped Battersea Power Station and Bankside Power Station, now home to Tate Modern.
The conversation will consider the challenges of readapting heritage buildings for new purposes in the 21st century. How do architects honour Scott’s original designs while meeting the evolving needs of today’s world?
Speakers:
- Wynn Chandra, Associate Studio Director, Herzog & De Meuron
- Dr David Lewis, Architectural Historian, University of Oxford
- Armstrong Yakubu, Senior Partner, Foster+Partners
Moderator:
- Iain Jackson, Professor of Architecture and Research Director, Liverpool School of Architecture
This event promises an engaging discussion about Scott’s enduring influence and the balance between preserving architectural heritage and adapting to modern-day demands.
October 28 – 30 | Family Half Term Arts and Crafts Activities
Bring your family along during the October half-term holidays for fun, creative arts and crafts sessions inspired by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott’s designs. These 45-minute workshops are family-friendly, free, and must be pre-booked. Each session will allow children to engage with Scott’s architectural legacy in a fun and hands-on way, as they create their own unique artwork.
Session times:
- 11:00 am
- 1:00 pm
- 2:00 pm
Pre-booking is required for all sessions.
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Two Tin Cans Free Art WorkShop
Create Your Own Art in a Replica K2 Telephone Box!
In another exciting family-friendly event, step inside a life-sized replica of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott’s famous K2 telephone box and unleash your creativity! Visitors will have the opportunity to create their own free print, based on either Liverpool Cathedral or the classic telephone box, and take home their very own masterpiece. This drop-in art activity is open to all ages and requires no booking.
Supported by the LCVS Community Impact Fund and The Hemby Trust, this event takes place alongside our family activities at the Cathedral.
28th- 30th October.
Saturday, November 9 | Meet the People Family Activities
Built by the People, for the People, to the Glory of God, this is your chance to meet some of the remarkable individuals connected to the Cathedral’s story.
As we commemorate 100 years since its consecration, our Education team invites you to:
- Learn about Giles Gilbert Scott, the visionary architect behind the Cathedral—try your hand at building arches or design your own cathedral!
- Discover the courage of Noel Chavasse, the double VC recipient, and craft your own medal in his honor.
- Step into Kitty Wilkinson’s Victorian kitchen and learn why she opened the first public wash house.
Giles, Noel, and Kitty will be making appearances throughout the day
These centenary celebrations provide a unique opportunity to reflect on Sir Giles Gilbert Scott’s architectural genius and his lasting impact on Liverpool and beyond. Whether you’re a fan of history, architecture, or just looking for a fun family day out, there’s something for everyone in our November events.
Come celebrate with us as we honor 100 years of Liverpool Cathedral and the remarkable legacy of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott!
Check out everything here now and be part of this memorable celebration!
Thank you to The Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art for supporting the two Sir Giles Gilbert Scott Talks
Thank you to LCVS Community Impact Fund and The Hemby Trust for funding the Two Tin Cans telephone box and educational activities.
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