Luke Jerram’s Oil Fountain To Be Displayed In Bristol Cathedral

This summer (14 June - 2 July) Luke Jerram’s installation titled Oil Fountain will be presented to the general public for the first time at Bristol Cathedral. The latest piece by the critically acclaimed Bristol-based installation artist will highlight contemporary society’s reliance on oil and the need to move away from this dependency.

Oil Fountain is a fountain sculpture which flows with artificial oil instead of water falling into black mirror-like pools and emitting a distinct smell. The artwork is designed to stimulate discussion by creating tension between its stunning visuals and the alarming subject-matter that it is addressing. 

The sculpture has been created from used engine oil and recycled acrylic, with details of plants and animals made extinct by humanity’s impact on nature, laser-cut into the surface. Surrounding medieval architecture of Bristol Cathedral and its visitors will reflect in the mirrored surface of the oil creating arresting imagery.

“We are very pleased to be hosting this thought-provoking piece in Bristol Cathedral. 

Human dependence on oil is a major contributor to global warming and we all have a part to play in addressing this issue and working to reduce the damage being done to our precious planet,” says the Very Rev’d Mandy Ford, Dean of Bristol.

Alongside the fountain, the Cathedral will host an exhibition and an exciting programme of events. Further details will be announced over the coming weeks. The display is part of the Festival of Nature (10^th – 18^th June, www.bnhc.org.uk/festival-of-nature).

“We all need to do what we can to reduce our dependency on oil, help fight climate change and steer society towards a net zero future. With a climate crisis underway, I hope this artwork will act as a focal point for conversations and help stimulate debate about this vital issue,” says Luke Jerram.

There is no charge for entry to the Cathedral, and the exhibition will be available whenever the Cathedral is open. Please check www.bristol-cathedral.co.uk for the latest update.