Inspired by Piper: 30 years of the Festival of Flowers at Chichester Cathedral

Six decades later, that same tapestry continues to inspire. Since the first Festival of Flowers in 1996, designers have responded to Piper’s radiant modernist design through colour, symbolism and scale, creating floral installations that echo its movement, light and spiritual energy.

From the Festival’s inaugural theme Darkness into Light, through themes celebrating Sussex landscapes, music, poetry, art and creation itself, designers have continually returned to the tapestry as both backdrop and inspiration. Each Festival has interpreted the space in a new way, responding to Piper’s glowing composition with displays that reflect its vibrancy, symbolism and sense of wonder.

For this year’s Festival of Flowers theme Nature’s Embrace, the space before John Piper’s High Altar tapestry will explore resilience, strength and wonder, combining a striking central piece with immersive side displays. A large sunset will be created behind the High Altar using a moongate structure, with its reflection flowing down the steps in front, while alpine meadow scenes on either side evoke endurance and natural strength. The design has been carefully developed to work in harmony with the Piper tapestry, echoing its colours while keeping the central cross visible and using the outer sections as a vibrant backdrop. The installation is led by Jacqui Arm, an experienced florist and RHS Chelsea Gold Medal winner, working with a team from Aldershot Floral Design Club.

Chichester Cathedral is celebrating the tapestry’s 60th anniversary with a year-long exhibition Glowing + Alive, which explores its artistic legacy and continuing influence. Together with the 30th Festival of Flowers, it offers a timely opportunity to reflect on how Piper’s bold vision continues to inspire new generations of artists and designers within this historic space.

Glowing + Alive runs until 15 November 2026, with free entry (donations welcome). The Festival of Flowers takes place from 3–6 June 2026, with tickets starting from £21 and available to book online.

For more information visit: https://www.chichestercathedral.org.uk