Visitors from all around the world admired the art installation designed by Peter Walker, with many describing the collaborative artwork as ‘stunning’, ‘mindblowing’ and ‘peaceful’, with one person saying Peace Doves was an ‘absolutely amazing exhibition’.
The artwork provided not only a great visual impression but also gave visitors the chance to reflect upon thousands of messages of peace, written by the public and community groups. From 26 July to 4 September, many people attended late-night openings and 3-course dinners under the artwork.
Andrew Usher, Chief Officer: Visitor Experience and Enterprise at Durham Cathedral says,
'We were delighted to welcome so many visitors to see the Peace Doves artwork by sculptor Peter Walker. It’s been great to see the involvement of community groups from Durham and surrounding areas, come together to create a meaningful artwork. We’ve seen many visitors take a moment and pause for reflection and contemplation under Peace Doves, taking in the serene environment.'
The Dean of Durham, The Very Reverend Dr Philip Plyming says,
'We’ve loved having Peace Doves with us at Durham Cathedral over the summer. Not only has it been visually inspiring, but it has also beautifully represented the thousands of prayers for peace offered by visitors and pilgrims to Durham Cathedral. Those prayers are more needed than ever and Durham Cathedral continues to offer everyone the opportunity to come and say a prayer for the world – or for anyone on their heart.'
Since April, people visiting Durham Cathedral were encouraged to write a message or prayer of peace, hope, love and friendship on a paper dove.
Community groups from the region were also involved with the mass-participation artwork, from Church groups, local school children, to members of Durham Cathedral's Community of Prayer, who are based all over the world and children from 1st Hartlepool Beavers, Squirrels and Cubs.
The artist's team then assembled the artwork suspending thousands of doves from the Lantern in the Central Tower. Peace Doves was illuminated by LED lights and accompanied by music from composer David Harper, creating an atmospheric experience as visitors wandered underneath.
