Ecclesiastical woodcarving discovery experience

Overview

Booking details: Free event, open to all (pre-booking required) www.squaremilechurches.co.uk/wren-300

A unique opportunity to see today’s woodcarvers in action at St Mary Abchurch, home to a magnificent altar screen by Grinling Gibbons (1648-1721) Britain’s most renowned Master woodcarver and sculptor.

Visitors can discover the incredible array of woodcarving and the painted dome ceiling inside the church, explained by conservation experts.

As visitors move through the church, they will see Oscar Whapham, an apprentice carver from W Thomas Restorations Ltd and expert carver from Swan Farm Studios carrying out carving repairs to the historic fretwork panels. Oscar has been involved in several high-profile carving projects including the chandeliers for the King’s Drawing Room at Kensington Palace.

Visitors will also see Cliveden Conservation in action as they continue with their cleaning trials to the famous wood reredos.

This all-encompassing experience will provide a fascinating insight into architectural gems inside St Mary Abchurch, one of Wren’s more hidden masterpieces and explain more about how these treasures will be safeguarded for years to come.

Conservators will be on hand throughout the day to talk to visitors about the work taking place.