A hand decorated bunting flag with blue sky and poppies.

Artwork created by local school pupils

In honour of the upcoming 80th anniversary of VE Day, the Royal Logistic Corps Museum has worked with two local primary schools to create a large art installation consisting of metres of bunting, which is on display in the museum now.

Children from Harestock and South Wonston Primary Schools worked with the museum to learn about VE Day, VJ Day and the end of the Second World War in a special assembly led by museum staff. Every child then created bunting triangles reflecting their thoughts on remembrance, commemoration, and celebration. Over 500 triangles were created by children from as young as four years old, reflecting their takeaway from the assembly.

‘We were delighted to work with two schools that have a high number of pupils from service families,’ said Alex Crisp, Assistant Curator of the museum. ‘These children have a special insight into what it is like to grow up with a parent in the Forces, or with friends whose parents serve, and we were excited to see their experiences reflected in the designs. There are a lot of military badges, soldiers and references to the Army, Navy, and the Air Force. There are also a lot of Union Jacks and cakes, reflecting ideas of VE Day street parties and celebration. These are tempered by flags with poignant images of poppies and homecomings. Altogether, the children have really captured the mood of celebration and commemoration.’

The bunting forms the largest installation put on display in the museum since it opened in 2021. Throughout the Spring, including the Easter holiday and May half-term, visitors to the museum will be able to design their own bunting triangle to add to the installation to grow the project as commemorative events unfold throughout the year.

Visit the museum to find out more about VE Day, VJ Day and the Second World War and to see the installation – the museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30 to 4pm. Entrance and parking are free and donations are welcomed.