Peter Walker - Peace Doves

The Old Royal Naval College will welcome renowned artist Peter Walker back to the Painted Hall as part of its 300th anniversary celebrations in 2026, presenting his iconic mass-participation artwork Peace Doves. Building on the Painted Hall’s enduring legacy as a place of artistic expression, creativity and storytelling, this installation will invite visitors to become part of the next chapter in its remarkable history. Through thousands of individual contributions, Peace Doves will transform the Painted Hall into a spectacular artwork exploring themes of hope, peace and connection. 

Doves have long been recognised across cultures as symbols of peace, love and hope – themes that resonate in Sir James’ Thornhill’s Baroque masterpiece. In the lead up to the installation opening in autumn 2026, , the Old Royal Naval College will invite schools, community groups and visitors to contribute to the artwork by creating their own hand-crafted dove. Each dove will carry a personal message or reflection becoming part of a collective expression of hope and shared humanity in the final artwork.

Dove-making stations will be available in the Painted Hall and The Chapel, as well as at selected events across the Old Royal Naval College’s programme. When complete, Peace Doves will fill the Painted Hall with a breathtaking flock of thousands of individual created doves, suspended beneath [1] one of the world’s most celebrated and magnificent interiors creating a powerful visual statement of hope and unity.

As the Old Royal Naval College marks 300 years of the Painted Hall, Peace Doves will be a highlight of the anniversary year, offering audiences the opportunity to contribute to the cultural legacy of one of Greenwich’s most treasured landmarks.

Where: Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9NN

When: Friday 20th November 2026 – Sunday 7th February 2027

Tickets: Standard from £19, £9.50 (concessions)

BOOK NOW

Venue details