Blackburn Cathedral to Host Earth Photography Exhibition

To coincide with the installation of Gaia, Blackburn Cathedral held a nationwide photography competition and the winners and shortlisted entries are on display in a special exhibition.

The competition theme was ‘Life on Earth’ and invited photographers to explore the beauty, diversity and fragility of our world.

Each entry captures a unique moment as seen through the eye of the photographer, offering a personal and powerful perspective on life on our shared planet.

The free-to-enter competition attracted hundreds of participants from across the United Kingdom and the two winners and shortlisted entries are on display through the installation of Gaia at Blackburn Cathedral.

This exhibition showcases wonderful images that highlight individual creativity whilst also evoking a reaction, sparking curiosity and encouraging us to consider our place in the universe.

The competition was judged by an expert panel from a range of disciplines:

Luke Jerram
The creator of Gaia, Luke’s innovative, multidisciplinary arts practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live artworks. Living in the UK, Luke works internationally, creating artworks at all scales, that deliver messages and inspire communities to recognise often challenging concepts. Luke has had over 900 exhibitions and his artworks can be found in over 70 permanent collections around the world.

James Glossop
Multi-award winning photographer James is the Photographer of the Year, (UK Press Awards 2025). His unique style combines reportage realism and studio-quality lighting making real life appear cinematic. His work has taken him from the Maasai Mara to Manchester, Beirut to Barlinnie and The Vatican to The Gorbals. He works with The Times newspaper and leading brands, creating imagery that drives powerful campaigns and captivates audiences.

Jenny Rutter
A powerhouse on the North West’s creative scene, Jenny has two decades’ experience as a producer and champion of the region’s creative industries. As Chair of Creative Lancashire, she shapes major cultural initiatives, and leads with a passion for using creativity to drive social change, empower communities, and support the sector. She is dedicated to raising the profile of Lancashire’s creative talent and harnessing the sector’s economic potential.

Erik Knudsen
Erik is Emeritus Professor at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). He is an acclaimed filmmaker, photographer, and academic whose work spans narrative documentary, fiction, and fine art photography. A leader in cinematic storytelling research, he heads international projects and has exhibited globally. Erik’s practice pushes creative boundaries, exploring innovative narrative forms that challenge, inspire, and resonate with global audiences.

In addition to the overall winner and highly commended entries – who will win £500 and £250 respectively – there is an opportunity for visitors to the exhibition to vote for their favourite image too. The one with the most votes will be recognised as the People’s Choice Award and will secure a £250 prize.

There is no charge to visit the exhibition and it is open whenever the Cathedral is open and all are warmly invited to visit.

Full details about visiting Blackburn Cathedral to see Gaia and the exhibition can be found at blackburncathedral.com/gaia.