3 July – 30 September 2014
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The special sculpture commissioned by the Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson to remember the 96 victims of the Hillsborough disaster is taking up temporary residence at Liverpool Cathedral. The art–sculpture is a simple band representing the bond between the families, friends and fans who were brought together in a time for the love of the lost ones.
The band is a link between them.
A continuous circle of love bringing the city of Liverpool together to remember. It is a very minimal design to not detract from the lights representing the lost, bringing light to their life.
The Band of Life will reside in the Chapter House which was set aside for personal prayer on the day the Hillsborough Independent Panel published their report in September 2012. Bishop James, who chaired the Panel, himself prayed for each of the 96 there, where 96 candles burned after the report’s publication.
Its arrival coincides with the special premiere of Michael Nyman’s Symphony No. 11: Hillsborough Memorial which takes place on Saturday July 5th. A recording of this piece, which launches this year’s Biennial, will also be heard in the Cathedral at 15:06 on 6 and 25 August, and 3 and 17 September.
The Dean, the Very Revd Dr Pete Wilcox said “it is fitting that the Band of Life will be in our Chapter House over the summer. The cathedral played an important role as a place of peace and justice when the Panel’s report was published. The Chapter House played an important part in helping the families reflect and try to begin to terms with the enormity of what they heard on that day.  I hope and pray that those who come to see the Band of Light will find, in the same way, that they are helped along the road to healing and peace.