THE Les Colombes installation exhibited in Salisbury Cathedral last year and the accompanying community project, #salisburycityofdoves have been shortlisted for an award.

They have been nominated in the Temporary or Touring Exhibition of the Year in the Museum and Heritage Awards for Excellence 2019.

The awards recognise the innovators and leaders of the UK and international museums, galleries and heritage visitor attractions.

The Dean of Salisbury, the Very Reverend Nicholas Papadopulos, said: “It is amazing to be in such illustrious company and we are delighted. Les Colombes is a powerful installation with a universal message. From the World War One Centenary, which the doves were originally intended to mark, to the shocking events in Salisbury in 2018, the message of reconciliation, peace, and resilience embodied in the doves is potent.

“Just as the exhibition moved on to San Francisco, incorporating doves made in Salisbury, and our own doves flew out across the city, appearing in shops, businesses and schools as part of #salisburycityofdoves, the work powerfully represents the unity and resourcefulness needed to face the challenges of our age.”

Michael Pendry’s Les Colombes was curated by Salisbury Cathedral arts adviser Jacquiline Creswell and exhibited at the cathedral from May 12 to July 22 July.

And as part of #salisburycityofdoves ‘dove’ templates and pre-cut origami paper were given to more than 150 businesses, schools and community partners. About 600 people attended special events that concluded with dove-making workshops and about 20 schools, care homes and community groups hosted dove-making workshops or created their own displays. Prisoners at Erlestoke Prison created some of the doves that were included in the cathedral display and later in San Francisco.

The winners will be announced at an award ceremony in London on May 15.