“THE LEAVES OF THE TREES” by Peter Walker Sculptor
The Leaves of the Trees” installation, now traveling through towns and cities across the country, was originally conceived in 2020, born out of the stillness and sorrow of that time. In those early days, when daily life paused and grief touched so many, the installation provided a space for reflection and remembrance. But as time moves forward, so too does the meaning of the installation, adapting to the ongoing need for hope in an ever-changing world.
Now, as it travels to towns and cities across the country, “The Leaves of the Trees” continues to embody the power of hope. The reasons we seek hope have evolved—no longer tied solely to the pandemic—but to the broader uncertainties we face in today’s world. Comprised of 5,000 steel leaves, each inscribed with the word HOPE, the installation mirrors fallen autumn leaves scattered by the wind, reminding us of both the fragility and resilience of life. The leaves, in the shape of a sycamore maple, were chosen for their symbolism of strength, protection, and clarity—qualities essential as we look toward an unpredictable future.
As the installation continues to move from place to place, the leaves are naturally ageing, rusting, and altering in colour, just as our lives shift and evolve. In this way, the installation takes on a deeper meaning: hope remains constant, but it changes shape, adapting to new contexts and challenges.
In today’s turbulent times, where uncertainty continues to define our future, “The Leaves of the Trees” offers a moment to pause and reflect, reminding us that hope is not just for a single moment in history, but something that grows with us, shifting and expanding as the reasons for hope take on new forms. It speaks to the strength we find in ourselves and in one another, inviting us to eflect on where we’ve been, and find strength as we face what lies ahead.
Touring Exhibitions ‘The Leaves of the Trees’ seen previously at:
October 2022 – Westminster Abbey
October/November 2022 – St Peter Mancroft Norwich
July/August 2022 – Liverpool Cathedral
April/May 2022 – Rochester Cathedral
December 2021 – Peterborough Cathedral
November 2021 – St Albans Cathedral
October 2021 – Winchester Cathedral
September 2021 – Southwark Cathedral
August 2021 – Worcester Cathedral
Chester 2020 – Chester Cathedral
November 2020 – Lichfield Cathedral
October 2020 – Sheffield Cathedral
September 2020 – Exeter Cathedral
The leaves of the trees installation artwork has gained significant impact upon it’s tour alongside the art installation is an additional engagement with the work in areas where visitors can write a message of hope or prayer upon a paper leaf. Thousands across the UK have participated so far with the Leaves of the Trees installation as it has been exhibited and engaged with the artwork by writing personal thoughts and reflections.
Supported by:
