The ‘Arts in Parliament’ project came to fruition at the beginning of June with the installation of the ‘Ceramic Flower Garden’, part of the nationwide ‘English Flower Garden’. The garden, which holds ceramic roses made by artist Paul Cummins to represent love and peace, will be displayed outside the Houses of Parliament. Thankfully, the peace protesters who had set up camp there since 2010 were forcefully  disbanded earlier this year, so the beauty and serenity of the flower garden will be unmarred.

This  is only the first in a long line of artistic endeavours which will be on display between now and September.Today saw the launch of the ‘Hands Around the World’ mural also set up in the name of peace, which features hand prints of some stellar stars, including Liam Neeson (am I alone in thinking he looks exactly like Ralph Fiennes?). It has been reported that Louis Walsh has also viewed the mural and ‘confirmed it has X-factor’.

Other events will include poetry readings,  theatrical performances, musical children and general flamboyant costumes.