Thank you for you interest in working at St Laurence: Stroud Centre for Peace and the Arts.
We currently have the following opportunities available:
Apex Cross Artist Commission, 17th April 2026
Project Overview
St Laurence Restored: Protecting Stroud’s Historic Heart is a major capital and engagement project to secure and revitalize the Grade II* listed St Laurence Church in central Stroud. Alongside critical conservation work, the project will deliver a rich programme of heritage and community engagement.
The project is structured into two phases:
- Development Phase (60 weeks): Planning, investigation, community engagement pilots
- Delivery Phase (60 weeks): Capital repairs and full public engagement programme
Purpose of This Role
We are seeking expressions of interest from stoneworkers, artist blacksmiths and other 3D materials designers to design and, subject to available funding, produce up to seven new apex crosses. The intention is to blend respect for the church's historical and architectural significance with innovative, imaginative responses that will contribute to the building's visual identity for future generations. This commission offers a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at one of Stroud’s most historic and visible landmarks, combining tradition, creativity, and public engagement.
St Laurence is an exciting church with dynamic congregations, an engagement with mystical Christianity and working to engage with all to give the church and all the events that take place there a vision of what a town centre church can be at its best. This is a legacy project to enhance the church with the Restoration project for a future century
Aims of the Commission:
- Reimagine the seven lost apex crosses with sensitivity to the church's Gothic Revival character but also taking into account Stroud’s contemporary and innovative community spirit.
- Celebrate craftsmanship and creativity in stonework and all other potential long lasting materials.
- Enhance public appreciation of heritage through visible, thoughtful additions.
- Provide an opportunity for emerging and experienced artists to contribute to this landmark Stroud institution.
- We would encourage applying artists to engage with local residents in Stroud, and incorporate any ideas or concepts gleaned, that resonate with their artistic intention.
Scope of the Commission
- Submit up to two concept designs for one or more apex crosses.
- Designs should be feasible in natural stone or other materials and suitable for high-level, external placement.
- Designs must take into account weathering, durability, and weight constraints.
- Designs must be appropriate in scale and compatible with the building’s Grade II* listing.
- Consideration should be given to safe and secure installation.
Commission Process:
- Stage 1: Open call for design concepts from interested artists, collaborations welcome.
- Stage 2: Shortlist of up to 4 artists invited to develop detailed proposals and maquettes.
- Stage 3: Final selection based on design quality, heritage sensitivity, and technical feasibility.
Budget:
Subject to funding, a budget will be available for:
- Artist maquette design fee (Stage 2 finalists) of £500 per artist
- Fabrication and installation of selected works – up to £1,500 per cross
Timeline:
- Call for entries: March 2026
- Submission deadline: April 17th 2026
- Shortlisting and feedback: May 8th 2026
- Maquette consultation and exhibition in St Laurence June 26th to August 21st 2026
- Final selection with maquettes: August 28th 2026 for Listed Building Consent
- Creation and Installation: Late 2027
Who Can Apply:
- Individual artists or teams with experience in stone carving, public art, or architectural sculpture.
- Emerging and established artists are welcome.
- Applicants must be able to provide examples of previous relevant work.
Submission Requirements:
- Artist CV or team biography
- Statement of interest
- Up to two concept designs (sketches or digital renderings)
- Supporting images of previous work
Selection Panel:
A panel including representatives from the St Laurence Project Team, heritage consultants, local artists, and community stakeholders will review submissions.
How to Apply: Please send your submission as a PDF to: camilla.hale@stroudparishchurches.org.uk.
Deadline for entries: 17th April 2026 at 5pm. Postal entries should be posted to St Laurence Church Office, The Shambles, Stroud, GL5 1AP.
For further information, contact Camilla Hale on camilla.hale@stroudparishchurches.org.uk.
St Laurence Church is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We are committed to equal opportunities and actively encourage applications from individuals and organisations from all backgrounds, including those currently underrepresented in the heritage and cultural sectors.
Caretaker
We’re looking for a motivated, proactive, and reliable Caretaker to join our friendly team at St Laurence.
This is a varied, hands-on role at the heart of our busy town centre spaces, including St Laurence Church, Shambles Hall, and our emerging green space. From supporting community cafés and local groups to preparing for concerts, markets, and events, you’ll play a key part in ensuring our spaces are safe, and ready to welcome people.
Working alongside staff and volunteers, you’ll take pride in the day-to-day care and smooth running of our buildings, helping to create places where people can gather, connect, and feel at home.
As St Laurence continues to grow as a hub for peace, the arts, and community life, this is an exciting opportunity to be part of something meaningful and evolving.
If you’re practical, organised, and community-minded, we’d love to hear from you.
The job description and more information can be found here.
Apply with a CV and cover letter to: lauren.moss@stroudparishchurches.org.uk
