Princesshay reveals new rainbow art installation: Hope

A new art installation has been unveiled in Princesshay today. The giant rainbow installation, entitled Hope, will brighten the canopy of the centre, high above shoppers’ heads, this summer.

Created using over 2,000 metres of rainbow coloured ribbon, hand sewn in the UK, the artwork is a gesture of thanks to key workers for their brave contribution throughout the crisis and represents the unity and sense of community that has been shown by the people of Exeter.

Michelle Menezes, Princesshay Centre Manager, says, “We wanted to mark the reopening of non-essential stores in Princesshay with a fantastic new art installation and a symbol of hope. We have been inspired by the positivity of the rainbows we saw in windows throughout lockdown, we hope that our installation inspires others too. This is the toughest of times for everyone and we want this beautiful display to represent a thank you to those who have worked so hard throughout lockdown as well as to lift people’s spirits. The colour and movement in the artwork really is breathtaking, we hope visitors enjoy it during their visit to Princesshay.”

Non-essential stores in Princesshay began to open their doors from 15th June with over 70% of Princesshay’s shops now open. Restaurant and bar Lloyd’s Lounge and hair salon SAKS have also reopened following further relaxation of lockdown rules, encouraging a steady increase in footfall throughout Princesshay and Exeter city centre.

Princesshay worked on the Hope installation with James Glancy Design, city dressing specialists renowned for eye catching displays across the UK including bespoke Christmas lighting displays on Regents Street and Carnaby Street and a hot air balloon installation at Cabot Circus in Bristol.