Although this spewing poppies installation looks as though the building it surrounds is literally chucking the symbolic red flowers out of its windows, there is nothing distasteful about it. Quite the opposite, actually. Titled 'Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red,' the spewing poppies installation is breathtaking and a beautiful tribute to mark the 100th year since the first full day of Britain's involvement in the first world war.
Created by ceramic artist Paul Cummins and stage designer Tom Pipe, the spewing poppies installation is set to run from August 5 - November 11, 2014. By the end of that time, 888,246 porcelain poppies will have been added in total with the help of volunteers, each representing a British or Colonial military fatality. It is located at the Tower of London.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Porcelain Memorials
- The use of porcelain in memorial installations creates a unique opportunity for artists to create long-lasting tributes.
- Volunteer-based Installations
- The involvement of volunteers in installations provides an opportunity to connect with the community and create a sense of ownership and pride for the art.
- Interactive Public Art
- Interactive public art installations offer individuals a chance to engage with their surroundings in a unique and meaningful way.
Where This Applies
- Art and Design
- The use of ceramics and innovative design in public art installations creates a unique opportunity for artists to contribute to public discourse.
- Non-profit/charity
- The involvement of volunteers in installations can be a great way to connect with the community and increase awareness and support for charitable causes.
- Tourism/hospitality
- Interactive public art installations, like the spewing poppies, can attract visitors and tourism to a location, increasing local economic activity.
