Modernist buildings at risk celebrated in Coventry exhibition

Coventry’s modernist architecture, much of which is at risk, is being celebrated in a new exhibition.

Paul Catherall’s linocut prints depicting landmarks such as the Bull Yard and the railway station are part of the show at Coventry Cathedral.

Every building featured, apart from the cathedral, is to be “redeveloped, closed, uncertain or threatened”, he said.

The city has undergone a lot of redevelopment in recent years. Around 1,500 homes are to be built as part of a £450m scheme affecting the City Arcade, Market Way, Shelton Square and Hertford Street.

Some public artwork, such as the listed Three Tuns mural, will be moved and new pieces created, developers Shearer Property Regen said.

“We understand the importance of preserving public art and heritage elements for the enjoyment of future generations,” he added.

In November 1940, German bombers destroyed much of Coventry city centre. It was rebuilt in what was then considered a bold, modern style.

The redevelopment of those buildings meant that some were lost or left empty.

“I’m not a slave to the idea that everything has to be preserved,” Mr Catherall said.

“But it certainly turned into a tribute to what could be completely lost.”

His prints showed the buildings “at their best,” he added, “to give them a bit of their original splendour.”

A print shows the town’s Grade II listed sports and leisure center building, which closed four years ago and remains empty.

“It was a truly ground-breaking piece of architecture, it received rave reviews when it was built and it’s really sad to see it go,” said the printmaker.

Coventry City Council said it is still working to secure an occupier for the site and spends around £400,000 a year maintaining and securing it.

To have his prints displayed in the cathedral was “amazing”, said Mr Catherall, who grew up in the town.

“Honestly, I didn’t walk around at 13 or 14 admiring Brutalist architecture, but your surroundings seep into you,” he added.

The London artist has previously been commissioned by Transport for London, The Royal Shakespeare Company and Penguin Books.

Sent From Coventry is on display at Coventry Cathedral until July 7.