Naked Christ
by Michele Coxon
A controversial sculpture of Jesus Christ created by a Mid Wales artist will be removed from display after nearly three years because officials feel it has served its purpose.
The Naked Christ was put on display at Shrewsbury Abbey during an art display in 2001 and drew criticism from some, who described it as “distasteful and distressing”.
But the sculpture will be taken down on Good Friday following a meeting of the Parochial Church Council.
Reverend Christopher Sims, vicar in charge of Shrewsbury Abbey, said: “This stunning and provocative sculpture was exhibited in the Abbey during an Art display in 2001.
“The sculpture attracted a lot of critical attention at the time and was retained on temporary loan to the Abbey by the artist Michelle Coxon.
“At a recent meeting of the Parochial Church Council it was decided that this very creative work of art had served its purpose in providing a challenging statement on the death of Christ.”
Coxon uses materials found around Lake Vyrnwy to create her art and is a member of Shrewsbury and District Arts Association.
The sculpture was inspired by Michelangelo’s wood crucifix The Naked Christ and made from materials found on walks.
Ms Coxon said her intention was to create an image of a man whose earthly body was decaying.