Exeter Cathedral Design Challenge

Here at Exeter Cathedral, we have an exciting design challenge taking place which is open to people living in Devon, aged 6+ and we would love for you to get involved. 

The aim of the ‘Misericord Design Challenge’ is to design a ‘misericord’ for Exeter Cathedral’s new Treasures Exhibition space. Misericords, also known as ‘mercy seats’, are tip-up seats that priests used to lean on during long services and they often feature detailed carvings. 

Four designs will be chosen to be made into misericords. One design will be selected from each of the following categories: primary school, secondary school, college age and ages 18+.

Creators of the winning designs will have the opportunity to:

  • Join clay and woodcarving workshops to help bring their designs to life.
  • Have their design hand-carved in oak by woodcarver, William Barsley.
  • See their Modern Misericord displayed in Exeter Cathedral’s new Treasures Gallery exhibition space.

The submission deadline for the competition is Monday 14 October 2024.

All entrants need to do is draw their design in the template provided and complete the form included in the submission pack. If you have any questions about the competition I’d be delighted to help. More information about the project can be found on the Exeter Cathedral website at https://www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk/modern-misericords/