New set of Nativity figures for St Mary Redcliffe Church
We are seeking an artist/craftsperson to design and create a new set of nativity figures for our church.
The nativity scene is a focus for devotion and a key part of how we share the Christmas story with thousands of people who come into our church at Christmas, so it’s important that it reflects what we believe are key gospel messages.
We are particularly looking for a set that
• Reflects the diversity of God’s people and enables all those who come to see themselves reflected among the characters of the Christmas story.
• Shows God’s love for all creation, perhaps by its use of natural materials, for example wood from native trees or reclaimed/recycled wood.
• Is robust enough to be handled by worshippers who are younger and/or would value a more tactile engagement with the Christmas story. Currently our Mary, Joseph and donkey figures travel round people’s homes during advent.
• Sits comfortably within our glorious medieval gothic church setting.
We have space for lots of figures so would like as a minimum
• Mary and Joseph
• A donkey
• Baby Jesus
• A manger
• Shepherd and sheep
• 3 magi
• Angel
• Star
But there is scope for more animals, shepherds, angels etc! As we keep the nativity scene in church until Candlemas (2nd February) a “toddler Jesus” would also be welcome.
We currently make our nativity scene in our altar, which is approx. 110cm high, and generally viewed from a distance. Our current figures are approx. 40cm high. While we would be open to larger figures, they shouldn’t be too large or heavy to be easily handled.
Timescale
We would like to use the new set this Christmas, so would expect that at least the main characters would be ready by then – Mary and Joseph by late November, and others by mid-December.
Budget
We have a budget of £1,500-£3,500 for this project to include material costs and time.
Process
A shortlisting panel will select up to 3 people to be given an honorarium of £200 to work up some designs, from which the appointment will be made.
Expressions of interest
We are now inviting expressions of interest for this project.
We are particularly keen to support the local creative community, and to hear from a wide range of people including younger and/or emerging artists and BAME artists.
We will be making slots available by appointment to visit the church on the morning of Tuesday 1st September.
If you would like to discuss the project please contact Kat Campion-Spall kat.campion-spall@stmaryredcliffe.co.uk
(NB I am on leave 24th-31st August); to arrange a visit please email sarah.purdon@stmaryredcliffe.co.uk
Please send
• A portfolio of 10 - 15 images/up to 8 sides of A4 of previous work (which may include work completed as part of a course)
• Either, if you have done other relevant projects, please give details of up to 3, including contact details for your client; or please give details of 2 referees. We will only contact referees if you are shortlisted.
• An outline budget for the project within the limits specified above including an indication of material costs and the cost of your time
All expressions of interest should be sent to Kat Campion-Spall at 12 Colston Parade, Bristol BS1 6RA or kat.campion-spall@stmaryredcliffe.co.uk
Please note, our email system has a file size limit of 25MB
Submissions by Thursday 10th September 5pm
Shortlisting w/c 14th September
Final appointment w/c 21st September
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As the new season begins, it feels full of potential as new life appears around us and the days grow longer. Spring brings a natural sense of renewal, and it feels like a particularly special time in the life of our church. I’m delighted that our building will be hosting several events that explore the story and meaning of Easter in different ways. One highlight will be hosting Riding Lights Theatre Company presenting Night Falls, a new Passion play by Paul Birch, offering a powerful retelling of the Easter story. We hope it will be meaningful for both members of our congregation and visitors who join us. We are also looking forward to a screening from the Exhibition on Screen series exploring Easter in Art, reflecting on how artists across the centuries have interpreted the Passion and Resurrection. Our church shop continues to welcome visitors and regulars alike. Alongside cards, books, and gifts, I’m pleased to share that we have recently brought a new book supplier on board, helping us widen our range of titles for both children and adults exploring faith and the heritage of the church. I’ve also been delighted to help recruit several new volunteers to help run church tours, and we hope this will allow us to expand our tour offer and share the story of the church with even more visitors. If you see them in the church please help welcome them to the team. Behind the scenes, we continue working to welcome concerts and other events into the church. Our beautiful space lends itself wonderfully to music, and these events not only bring people together but also help support the care and future of the building. Over the coming months, we look forward to hosting a range of concerts and cultural events, welcoming audiences from across the local area and beyond. If you know of choirs, ensembles, or promoters looking for a distinctive venue, please do point them in our direction. Thank you to everyone who supports these activities by volunteering, attending events, shopping in the shop, or spreading the word. Recca Horry , Commercial Manager 13.03.2026
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Preached by the Revd Dr Brutus Green
Preached by the Revd Simon Goodman
