St Paul’s Church has launched its poppy display for this year armistice day and Remembrance Sundaywith the beautiful installation of its artists in residence Linzi Saunders and Kevin Rudkin.
Over the past few weeks, the couple collected empty plastic bottles, which were then cut, painted and glued to a frame of garden trellis and support canes.
This was then tied around one of the large trees in St Paul’s cemetery. The artists say using recycled materials is not only better for the environment, but embraces the “make and fix” approach that had to be taken around World War II.
Linzi, who lives in Ryhope, admitted that it was a lot of work. However, she says it was worth it and is happy with the results.
She said: “Kevin and I used over 300 pop bottles for the installation and there was enough left over to make three more wreaths.”
Kevin added: “I like that it’s not obvious what it’s made of unless you get close enough to look at its construction.”
The work has been well received by locals, both in “real life” and on social media. Reverend David Chadwick of St Paul is also delighted with the tribute.
He said: “Some of the ladies in the church also knitted poppy garlands. These and the poppy complement each other very well.
St. Paul’s Church Artist Residencies were established to provide an experience for new and emerging local artists to respond to the building’s heritage, architecture, and the community it serves.
It is hoped that such projects will highlight not only the faith, but also the communal role of the Church in Ryhope.
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The poppy will remain in place at Ryhope Street North Church through the end of November.