Flowers of the Earth by Saroj Patel is a response to the vibrant and diverse cultures of Rotherham and the Children’s Capital of Culture theme ‘Who We Are, Where We Come From’ which was developed from children and young people’s desire to explore and celebrate our many identities as part of this festival year. The installation transforms Rotherham Minster into a vibrant garden, where each flower, each identity, contributes to the flourishing of a unified, colourful, and harmonious space.
Suspended from the ceiling in a cascade of vibrant hues, Flowers of the Earth transforms Rotherham Minster into a space of celebration, connection, and cultural expression. Inspired by the rich traditions of Hindu culture, where flowers symbolise positive energy, spirituality, and new beginnings, this installation is a tribute to the power of flowers as a universal language that transcends borders.
The addition of temple bells to the installation further enhances the sensory experience, inviting visitors to pause and reflect in the present moment. Temple bells, traditionally made from a mix of five metals—copper, silver, gold, zinc, and iron - symbolise the five universal elements: earth, air, sky, water, and space. Just as flowers represent the flourishing of diverse traditions, the bells serve as a reminder of the harmony that binds all elements of life together, inviting a moment of mindfulness and connection with the deeper meanings of community and identity.
PERFORMANCE - Enjoy a special musical performance on Saturday 10th May, 12pm - 12:20pm.
WORKSHOP - Join us for a free workshop on Saturday 24th May, 11am - 2pm. To create your own Flower Garlands. All materials and guidance provided are free for everyone and suitable for ages 10+ (sewing with needles).
We Are What Flows performance speaks to the invisible yet powerful forces that move through all of us - energy, ancestry, emotion, breath, memory, and sound. The title reflects the understanding that we are not fixed or separate from the world around us, but instead, we are part of an ongoing, ever-shifting current of life.
Find out more about Saroj here - https://sarojpatel.com/
OPENING TIMES:
Saturday 10th May: 12pm-4pm
Sunday 11th May: Closed
Monday 12th May - Thursday 15th May: 10am - 2pm
Friday 16th May - Sunday 18th May: Closed
Monday 19th May - Thursday 22nd May: 10am - 2pm
Friday 23rd May: Closed
Saturday 24th May: 10am - 12pm
Sunday 25th May - Monday 26th May: Closed
Tuesday 27th May - Thursday 29th May: 10am - 2pm
