Paul Hobbs makes painting, sculpture and installations that consider contemporary social issues in the light of biblical values. He exhibits frequently, and gives workshops and talks about his artwork, its themes and his method of working. Paul was born in Nigeria in 1964 and now lives and works in Gloucester.

Holy Ground is a collection of shoes and stories from Christians all around the world arranged around a simple sculptured tree symbolising the burning bush. The stories are short statements about what it means for each person to believe in Christ in their particular situation. Among those represented are a thief, a refugee, the despised, the rejected—people who Jesus specially sought out—as well as those who have known great opportunity, wealth and success. There are those who are beautiful, those who are disabled, those struggling to make a living and raise a family, those who have known great loss and tragedy, and those asking the deep questions of life. All have encountered the living God, arriving at a place of holy ground, where they must—metaphorically at least—remove their shoes in acknowledgement of God’s holiness.

‘Most deeply affecting, showing the beauty of God and people.’

This exhibition will only be available to view during opening hours, variations can be found on the Visiting page.