New art installation ‘Identity’ comes to Liverpool Cathedral

Following the overwhelming reaction to both ‘Peace Doves’ and ‘Being Human’, this final chapter in the story focuses on the individual identities of humans, presented as a collective community.

Peter Walker returns to Liverpool Cathedral this summer, with the third installation of his successful series, entitled ‘Identity – We Are All Together’. The installation will be available for visitors to the Cathedral to view from 28 July – 3 September.

Liverpool Cathedral’s largest installation to date, and sculpted inside the building, ‘Identity’ introduces seven illuminated columns, suspended over the Well.

Each column is lit, with individual strips of light representing the double helix of DNA and demonstrating the unique make up of each person. Together, the seven columns represent humanity’s distinct differences, gathered in union.

The number seven was selected by Walker for its poignant links, including the seven pillars of wisdom and the seven ages of man, as well as a number with striking biblical significance, denoting fullness and completion.

Identity’s visual impact is supported by its ability to change colour throughout its stay at the cathedral, powerfully representing symbols of various communities and our shared values as well as individuality, including our ethnicity, gender and sexuality. Its arrival in Liverpool Cathedral coincides with ‘Pride in Liverpool’, taking place in the city on 29 July.

Whilst the reference to DNA demonstrates the uniqueness of us all, the columns are wrapped in over 3000 individual portraits, all photographed as part of Peter Walker’s 2022 installation ‘Being Human’, presented together as a collective. The inclusion of local people and previous visitors is in keeping with Liverpool Cathedral’s motto – ‘Built by the people; for the people; to the Glory of God’.

Sculptor, Peter Walker, said:

“Identity’ reflects on the fact that in a world of constant change and flux, and where people quickly react to the differences between us, if we look at what unites us and unites every individual on earth, we will see that we are all inextricably linked.

“In a world where we are so unique, where the existential self is shaped and ever changing, and where individuality is complex; it is the central unifying identity of humanity which joins us together.”

Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool said:

“It is a pleasure to welcome Peter Walker back to Liverpool Cathedral, displaying this latest installation here in the Cathedral, in a space that has become familiar to him. Identity highlights the importance of both individuality and community.

“In a world of division and difference, we are pleased to host an installation that highlights the bonds and links that we all, as individuals, have in common. As a cathedral built and shared by the city’s people, we understand the value of our community and look forward to welcoming visitors to view ‘Identity’ here in the Well.”