Leaves Of The Trees art installation at Southwell Minster by sculptor Peter Walker serves as reflective memorial for coronavirus pandemic

An artwork installation at Southwell Minster will serve as a reflective memorial to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Leaves Of The Trees, by internationally-acclaimed sculptor Peter Walker, is on display until June 6.

Southwell Minster is among just a few host venues for the installation, which has previously visited Exeter, Sheffield and Lichfield cathedrals.

The Leaves Of The Trees is made up of 5,000 5ins leaves, each cut from 1mm mild steel, which was chosen as the material to remind people of their resilience and collective strength.

The leaves will slowly change from steel to rusted tones over the course of the tour, just as the leaves of trees do when they fall each year.

Each leaf, individually carved with the word hope, are laid out on the floor, creating a cascading impression of autumn leaves fallen from the trees, appearing as though naturally scattered by the wind. The leaves symbolise the past and all that has transpired, as we hope for a better future.

The Dean of Southwell, the Very Rev Nicola Sullivan, said: “We have all been affected by the terrible impact of the pandemic. We have had so few ways to grieve and Peter Walker’s simple but powerful installation will help us find healing and hope amidst our tears and loss.

“This is for everyone – whatever age or faith, and we invite everyone to come to their cathedral for moments of quiet reflection.”

Peter Walker said: “Over the past 12 months we have collectively seen many of the things we take for granted, moved out of reach, and confronted by challenges, personal, national and international which have not been experienced for generations.

“Yet despite this, and despite the hardships, loss and difficulties, there has been hope. Hope exposed as glimpses of individual endeavour, kindness and service, hope as revealed by nature and the joy that it brings and hope which human ingenuity and resolve has revealed.”

The exhibition has been partly-funded by Newark and Sherwood District Council.

Council leader David Lloyd said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to play a part in bringing this important work to the district and to such an appropriately contemplative and beautiful setting as Southwell Minster.

“This installation will give our community, and particularly individuals who have lost loved ones and been personally affected by covid-19, a vital focal point for reflection on all that has happened over the past year and, hopefully, inspire us to look forward too.”