Poppy Fields by Luxmuralis opens at Chester Cathedral

Poppy Fields, an immersive sound and light art installation that reflects the end of war and hope for peace has opened in Chester Cathedral.

The show by Luxmuralis uses digital projections and asks the visitor to reflect on the end of World War One and World War Two and peace in our world.

Poppy Fields is open at Chester Cathedral. Concludes 22nd February.

During Poppy Fields there is footage of war poetry – passages from Wilfred Owen, Charlotte Mews, William Noel Hodgson – read by Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne OBE.

Particularly poignant for Cheshire will be the inclusion of 750 names covering both world wars from The Cheshire Roll of Honour, a volunteer group designed to bring together the lives of those from the county whom during a time of conflict have served in the Armed Forces.

The Dean, the Very Revd Dr Tim Stratford said,

“It is particularly special that as we prepare to commemorate the anniversary of VE Day in May, Poppy Fields is here at Chester Cathedral.

“To many VE Day represents a moment of great sadness and reflection, as millions of people had lost their lives or loved ones in the conflict, and whilst Poppy Fields reflects that, it also encourages us to endeavour for peace in God’s world.” 

The artwork also looks at nursing through history, in war, such as Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole, and the role nurses play today  and was created as a tribute to the NHS

Poppy Fields opened on Tuesday 18 February and concludes Saturday 22 February 2025.

Entrance is by timed-ticket from 5.30pm – 8.15pm but visitors are welcome to spend as much time in the cathedral as they wish.

Photo credit:  ‘Image created by Luxmuralis’ Poppy Fields at Winchester Cathedral