As part of the ongoing transformation to Queens Gardens, there will be a newly designed area dedicated to peace and contemplation, remembering those lost during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Since 1986, the Peace Garden has provided visitors with a quiet area for reflection and contemplation. The Quakers hold an annual meeting to commemorate Hiroshima Day. As part of the design development, the artist Katayoun Dowlatshahi has engaged with the Quakers to create a sensitively designed, informal space for contemplation.
The new design at the eastern end of the gardens provides opportunities for shared experiences and peaceful reflection, offering a moment of calm away from the uncertainties and disruptions of everyday life.
The design includes an arrangement of bespoke seating and paving which references the Robert Adams relief panels, an original public art commission from the Sir Frederick Gibberd era of the gardens, which looks over the Peace Garden from the eastern pond.
The granite seating will vary in height with 15 seats in total, arranged in five groups of three seats arranged in the round. The seats will be detailed with artwork and the paving will feature designs formed by brass insets.
The new design features extensive planting, specially chosen for their associations with remembrance and well-being. Some of these include:
- Rosmarinus officianalis (Rosemary)
- Lavandula angustifoilia (English Lavender)
- Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' (Hydrangea)
- Leucanthemum x superbum (Shasta Daisy)
- Myosotis sylvatica (Forget me Not)
- Tulipa ‘Pink Diamond’ (Tulip)
- Narcissus ‘February Gold (Daffodil)
Artist Katayoun Dowlatshahi designed the seats and artwork to be incorporated into the paving and worked in close collaboration with Southern Green Landscape Architects to implement the scheme. When consulting The Quakers, the fundamental importance of seating arranged “in the round”, was re-enforced to Katayoun. Their annual remembrance focuses on the impact of the nuclear bombs on Japan during WWII. The design prominently incorporates the circle, a symbol of peace deeply embedded in Quaker philosophy.
A bespoke seating scheme will reference the Robert Adams mural while serving as a focal point for the reflective garden. This concept not only acknowledges existing features in the garden but also pays homage to Hull’s rich maritime history, particularly the whaling industry. Illustrations of the whaling vessel The Isabella, launched in 1813, will be etched in the Crystal Black granite of the seating.
Have your say
You can have have your say by emailing hymc@hullcc.gov.uk or via our contact form. You have until Friday 20 December to send your thoughts and feedback.
