Campaign is launched to bring Chesterfield artist Paul Cummins’s Tower poppies sculpture ‘back home’

A new campaign has been launched to have part of the iconic poppy sculpture by Chesterfield artist Paul Cummins to be displayed in his hometown next year.
Chesterfield artist Paul Cummins, the artist behind the popular Tower of London poppy exhibition. Pic Andrew Matthews/PA WireChesterfield artist Paul Cummins, the artist behind the popular Tower of London poppy exhibition. Pic Andrew Matthews/PA Wire
Chesterfield artist Paul Cummins, the artist behind the popular Tower of London poppy exhibition. Pic Andrew Matthews/PA Wire

The Weeping Window sculpture formed part of the installation Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red which was on display at the Tower of London last year to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War.

Now a partnership between Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield College, Destination Chesterfield and ex-servicemen’s organisations is spearheading a drive to host the sculpture in 2016.

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The display features 2,800 ceramic poppies, which will cascade from a building of some height.

Options for displaying the sculpture include the Town Hall, Rose Hill.

A decision on whether the borough will host the sculpture will be made by a panel including Mr Cummins; 14-18 NOW, the official First World War Centenary cultural programme and the Imperial War Museum.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, the borough council’s cabinet member for town centre and visitor economy, said: “The First World War was a watershed in our history. Hosting the Weeping Window sculpture would be fitting for us to remember the many Chesterfield men and women who gave their lives during the conflict.

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“As the artist, Paul Cummins, is from Chesterfield, this would also be an opportunity to show our pride in him and his work in his home town.”

The decision on whether Chesterfield could host the sculpture will be made in September.

The council will seek sponsorship to cover the cost of displaying the sculpture.

Anyone with any suggestions for funding should contact Bernadette Wainwright, cultural and visitor services manager, by emailing [email protected] or calling 01246 345779.