Some of us from the camera club went across to Salford to see and photograph the poppy installation 'Wave' outside the Imperial War Museum North. It was one part of the huge artwork of ceramic flowers: 'Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red', by Paul Cummins and Tom Piper, that was installed at the Tower of London in 2014 to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War. (See HERE). Since then, key sculptural elements of the whole have been touring the UK. It seems a fitting way to mark the centenary of the end of that particular war, even if 'war' hasn't ended.
It's undoubtedly a powerful piece of art and poppies are a poignant symbol...but ... Frankly, I think as a global society we should now stop thinking back and start thinking forward, striving to reverse what seems to me the current slide into nationalism, hatred, fear-mongering, power-grabbing and intolerance, the very scourges that fuel wars. Not to forget, either, those who are still suffering the mental and physical effects of war, both military personnel and refugees. Let us be forthcoming with both respect and the help they actually need. I'm done with poppies and piety.
I whole heartedly endorse the sentiments you have expressed here.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful installation and great photographs -- but I so agree with what you said.
ReplyDeleteSo gorgeous and moving.
ReplyDeleteAn impressive display but it certainly feels as if peace and tranquility is far away.
ReplyDeleteQuite wise, and poignant.
ReplyDeleteIn Russia a young lady told me she had never heard of Stalin, who is he? The first war had a tremendous effect on my psyche. If we forget the bitter past so lightly, mankind may be doomed to repeat it.
ReplyDeleteYes totally agree with you. Here in NZ we call it Armistace Day but the same remembrance.
ReplyDeleteAmazing
ReplyDelete