Armistice day was remembered in a unique way today…
Ceramic Poppies by Paul Cummins
11 November 2014 marks the centennial anniversary of Armistice Day, which ended the First World War that claimed approximately 37 million lives.
In a moving tribute to the fallen military heroes of the “war to end all wars”, ceramicist Paul Cummins and stage designer Tom Piper created this awe-inspiring poppy installation at the Tower of London in its famous moat.
888,246 British (and Commonwealth) military personnel lost their lives during the war. It seems almost impossible to give this number context but this installation does it perfectly. Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red is a project that began in January of this year. Each poppy was carefully crafted and represents one of the British military servicemen who died in the war.
Since the beginning of the British summer these poppies have progressively filled the moat area creating a virtual ‘Sea of Red’. The public at large have been able to purchase these poppies for 25 pounds. Each poppy purchased has subsequently been planted into the installation.
The money raised through the sale of the poppies, around 11.2 million pounds, will be given to charities supporting British veterans.
The Installation was completed today when a volunteer planted the last of the 888,246 poppies, in commemoration of Armistice Day.
This beautiful ceramic creation proves that art goes beyond the facts and extracts the heart out of history and puts it on display for all to see in the most poignant manner.
Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red
Watch the making of the installation here
Due to its popularity the poppy display will stay up for an extended period.