A touring art installation is at Winchester Cathedral this month to reflect on the coronavirus pandemic.

The installation called ‘The Leaves of the Trees’, has been at Winchester Cathedral since October 6 and will be there until November 2.

It has been created by Sculptor, Peter Walker, to honour those who have died during the pandemic and to allow people to contemplate their own experiences and think about loved ones.

The installation is made up of 5000 steel leaves, with each leaf stamped with the word ‘hope’. The leaves are laid out on the floor of the Cathedral, creating an impression of autumn leaves fallen from trees.

The Very Reverend Catherine Ogle, Dean of Winchester said: “We are delighted to welcome this poignant installation by Peter Walker to Winchester Cathedral.

“I’m hoping that these fallen leaves will be a rich source of reflection, giving many the opportunity for a clearer view and a new perspective.

“With many of us feeling ‘stripped back’ and aware of what has been lost in the past year, the installation will allow people to both honour those lost to the pandemic and look forward with a sense of togetherness and hope.”

Peter Walker said: “Steel has been chosen as the material for the leaves, to remind us of our resilience and collective strength. As the artwork tours around the country the steel will age, rust and change colour, just as the leaves of trees do when they fall each year.

“However, in nature, fallen leaves are essential to prepare the planet for spring and new growth. It is hoped that the simplicity and beauty of the installation will give people the chance to pause and contemplate on their own experience and also the wider situation that we find ourselves in.”

As well as viewing the installation, visitors also have the opportunity to write their own thoughts and private messages to loved ones on a paper leaf.