Artist Peter Walker returns to Liverpool Cathedral this summer with a third installation following the success of his spectacular Peace Doves and Being Human displays. Tony McDonough reports
Artist Peter Walker is returning to Liverpool Cathedral this summer offering a third installation.
In 2022 Peter wowed visitors to Liverpool Cathedral with his Being Human installation. Prior to that his work entitled Peace Doves was also well received. Now he is to return with a third installation called Identity – We Are All Together.
On display from Friday, July 28, to Sunday, September 3, this final chapter in the story focuses on the individual identities of humans, presented as a collective community.
Liverpool Cathedral’s largest installation to date, and sculpted inside the building, Identity introduces seven illuminated columns, suspended over the Well.
Each column is lit, with individual strips of light representing the double helix of DNA and demonstrating the unique makeup of each person. Together, the seven columns represent humanity’s distinct differences, gathered in union.
The number seven was selected by Walker for its poignant links, including the seven pillars of wisdom and the seven ages of man, as well as a number with striking biblical significance, denoting fullness and completion.
Identity’s visual impact is supported by its ability to change colour throughout its stay at the cathedral, powerfully representing symbols of various communities and our shared values as well as individuality, including our ethnicity, gender and sexuality.
Its arrival in Liverpool Cathedral coincides with Pride in Liverpool, taking place in the city on July 29.
While the reference to DNA demonstrates the uniqueness of us all, the columns are wrapped in over 3,000 individual portraits, all photographed as part of Peter Walker’s 2022 installation ‘Being Human’, presented together as a collective.
He said: “Identity reflects on the fact that in a world of constant change and flux, and where people quickly react to the differences between us. If we look at what unites us and unites every individual on earth, we will see that we are all inextricably linked.”
Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, added: “It is a pleasure to welcome Peter Walker back to Liverpool Cathedral.
“Identity highlights the importance of both individuality and community. In a world of division and difference, we are pleased to host an installation that highlights the bonds and links that we all, as individuals, have in common.”