After an extended three-year display at Wells Cathedral, Antony Gormley's controversial sculpture 'DOUBT' (2020) is set to return to the artist's personal collection next month.

The sculpture, located in the previously empty Niche 338 below the north-west tower, will depart this summer, leaving the space vacant once again.

Visitors will have the opportunity to view the cast iron work until mid-August 2024, as confirmed by cathedral officials.

Sculptor Antony Gormley and DOUBT (Photo: Stephen White and Co)

Wells Cathedral's Canon Chancellor, The Reverend Dr Megan Daffern, discussed the decision to leave the niche empty:

"DOUBT has been with us for longer than initially expected, so we have decided to invite space to follow it—both literally and metaphorically. Theologically and artistically, we need space to wonder and grow in our relationship with God; to invite spaciousness in ourselves, in our souls and in our community, and space to pause replacing busy thoughts and activities."

She added, "We are committing to a three-year 'space' to allow good consideration of what should be in Niche 338, including what the future of Niche 338 should include. It also allows for a simple series of space-related projects about which local partners may wish to make suggestions."