New London exhibition: Peace Doves by Peter Walker at the Painted Hall

What is Peace Doves by Peter Walker?

2026 marks 300 years since the creation of the Painted Hall, with a programme of events and experiences taking place throughout the year. One of the highlights is Peace Doves by Peter Walker, a mass participation artwork made up of individual paper doves created by members of the public.

Much like the dove itself, the artwork is centred around hope, peace and love, with the aim of spreading these messages throughout the Painted Hall and beyond. The idea is simple but rather lovely: bring people together in one of London’s most spectacular spaces and invite them to think about what peace means to them.

How can I be part of Peace Doves?

Getting involved with Peace Doves is very simple. Book a ticket to visit the Old Royal Naval College, which gives you access to both the Painted Hall and the Chapel, and look out for the tables where the paper doves are waiting to be created.

Pens are provided, so all you need to do is write your message and pop it into the collection box. For me, peace meant those small moments that make you feel content: a walk along the river on a crisp autumn morning, laughing with loved ones or a warm pastry from your favourite bakery. Whatever peace means to you, your dove will be gathered up with those made by other visitors and local schools before becoming part of the finished installation.

What to expect from Peace Doves at the Painted Hall

When Peace Doves opens in November, the completed installation will be suspended from the ceiling at the far end of the Painted Hall, creating the impression of a flock of doves floating through the space.

It feels like a particularly fitting setting. The Painted Hall is already an extraordinary Baroque masterpiece, with its dramatic ceilings and more than 200 figures depicting royals and scenes from classical mythology. Adding a flock of white doves above visitors creates another ethereal element to the space.

I, for one, can't wait to return and try to spot my own dove among them, but I'm equally intrigued to see what it feels like to stand beneath the finished installation and read the different messages people have contributed. Depending on where each dove is placed, you’ll be able to discover some of these handwritten messages and the personal stories behind them, from hopes for the future to the simple things that bring people a sense of peace.