Peace Doves: made possible by you

Published: Friday 2 August 2024

For three months we invited visitors, school children, local groups and church communities to write a message and create a dove, making this artwork truly yours.

The mass-participation artwork Peace Doves, is created by artist by Peter Walker and is made up of thousands of handmade paper doves each containing an individual message of peace, love hope or friendship.

Read more about what inspired people to write their message and what peace means to them.

Jerry Li, a member of the congregation

‘I was inspired to add my prayer to the Peace Dove because it’s a beautiful gesture to show commitment to world peace.’

Rev Rachael Farnham, Church of England Chaplain at HMP Frankland Prison

‘As a group, we discussed the impact of the news on the nation as a whole and the ongoing stories of war and violence over the world.
We spoke of the need for a different narrative – one that includes peace.

We saw writing a message of peace on the doves as both personal (prayers for family etc.) and corporate (hope for the world). Different members of the group interpreted this in different ways; some using Biblical verses and others words from their heart.’

9th Hartlepool Beavers, Squirrels and Cubs

‘The Beavers, Squirrels and Cubs were delighted to make Peace Doves – they really loved it!

These are lockdown children who have been isolated in their early years and haven’t had access to the opportunities that they should have. It’s now time for them to become part of the world and to bring their kindness and hope to the community, because they are our future. Peace Doves engaged the children and allowed them to do this.

We’ve encouraged them all to come with their families to see the installation they’ve been part of.’

Louise Moriarty, Leader for the 9th Hartlepool Beavers, Squirrels and Cubs