Controversial Christ painting on show

The bottom half of the painting offended some of the congregation

A controversial painting of Christ, which was covered up because it caused offence to churchgoers, has been put on display for the first time in 10 years.

The three-metre high work of art, created in 1941, normally hangs in Bishop Hannington Church in Hove but is covered with a drape.

It depicts Christ with illustrations of other religions below him.

A decade ago the piece of art was covered up after some of the congregation complained it caused offence as they did not want other religious icons on display in church.

But now the drape has come off the painting for it to be displayed at an exhibition being held as part of the Brighton Festival.

'Empty-headed reasoning'

The painting is being displayed in the show which is called God's Design which also includes work by children.

Chris Dalton, from Bishop Hannington Church, said: "The bottom of the picture represents the other religions in the world from empty-headed reasoning to Buddha and animism.

"Some of the congregation did not like the bottom of the picture and in fact the artist is actually saying: 'Keep raising your eyes to Jesus'."

The drape will be put back on the picture when the exhibition finishes on Sunday.