'Bloodswept lands and seas of red', Tower of London

Have you seen what is on display at the Tower of London? A sea of blood red poppies fills the moat, marking the centenary year of the outbreak of WWI  

At the Tower of London a vast sea of red is growing. To mark the centenary of Britain’s entry into the First World War ceramic artist Paul Cummins, in collaboration with stage designer Tom Piper and an army of artists, has created an iconic memorial of ceramic poppies that individually represent each commonwealth soldier that died during the conflict. Cummins was first inspired for this project by a line in the will of a Derbyshire soldier who enlisted in the earliest days of the war and died in Flanders: 'The Bloodswept lands and seas of red, where angels fear to tread'. 

By Remembrance Day on the 11th of November a colossal 888,246 poppies will fill the moat of the Tower, surrounding the landmark and creating a physical space for reflection. Alongside the installation there is a new exhibition in the Flint Tower that explains the Tower’s unique role in the war effort and the creation of the poppies. 

Each day the names of 180 individuals will be read out in the Roll of Honour followed by the bugle’s last post. In a wonderful addition the public are able to nominate names for this list every week according to a first come first served basis. Similarly you can get involved with the project by purchasing one of the poppies for £25, to be donated to six service charities. 

Young royals Prince William, Kate and Prince Harry unveiled the installation last week and had the opportunity to add their own poppies to the river of red. Indeed from the air the Tower looks as if it has been soaked in blood, acting as a potent visual commemoration which reminds us of the importance of this centenary year. 

Want to read more? Members enjoy full access to all Culture Whisper's arts previews, exclusives and features. Click here to take our cultural quiz and get a month's free trial.