In the heart of Aldershot’s Manor Gardens, a delicate silk poppy stood illuminated on VE Day, telling stories not often heard. Nearby, a new flame was lit — the Rushmoor Beacon, a striking steel structure that now stands as a civic landmark and a lasting tribute to the borough’s identity, military history, and shared future.

Together, The Poppies Blow installation and the beacon became more than commemorative gestures — they became acts of belonging.

Commissioned by Nutkhut and supported by Rushmoor Borough Council, The Poppies Blow is an installation inspired by the wartime poem In Flanders Fields. The artwork featured a large, glowing silk poppy.

Simmy Gupta, co- Artistic director of Nutkhut said:

“We were overwhelmed by the public’s response, people from every part of the borough came and shared their stories. It became a living space of reflection and connection — especially for those who often feel invisible in remembrance culture.”

Over 500 people engaged with the event. Many described the experience as moving, meditative, and overdue.

As night fell on VE Day, the newly constructed Rushmoor Beacon was lit in a moving ceremony that drew a crowd of residents, veterans, and civic leaders. The beacon, was welcomed as a new symbol of identity and inclusion for the borough.

Cllr Sophie Porter, Deputy Leader of Rushmoor Borough Council, captured the mood:

“We are proud to be building a beacon that serves as a focal point for bringing our communities together. The Rushmoor Beacon is a fantastic initiative that embodies the values of unity, heritage, and community.”

The design of the beacon itself is rich with meaning. The Hampshire Rose reminds visitors of their place in the wider county, while the borough’s coat of arms — featuring crossed swords, the Astral Crown, and a key — reflects Aldershot and Farnborough’s close ties to the Army, their aviation history, and their technological innovation.

“Rushmoor’s identity is built on strength, service, and innovation,” said Cllr Porter. “We now have a landmark that physically reflects that history and welcomes everyone into it.”

For Nutkhut, whose practice often centres around memory, community, and shared heritage, The Poppies Blow installation was a natural fit. The illuminated poppy, with petals batiked and dyed by hand, sat at the heart of a multi-sensory space.

“It was healing,” said Kelsey  a local teacher. “My children saw remembrance as something alive, not just something in textbooks.  They saw that the past includes them too.”

The installation also created new pathways for participation. From local schools and youth groups to underrepresented veterans and new residents, the project actively sought to engage those often excluded from commemorative events.

The beacon and the poppy installation weren’t separate efforts, but complementary symbols. Where the poppy offered a moment of personal reflection, the beacon declared a collective intent — to remember together, publicly and proudly.

“This beacon will serve as a lasting tribute to our Armed Forces and a space for all residents to gather,” added a Council spokesperson. “Thanks to the Community Recovery Fund, it will support civic gatherings and celebrations for generations to come.”

As the crowd dispersed on VE Day, a quiet sense of solidarity remained in the air. A flower had spoken. A flame had been lit. A borough had been seen — in its fullness, complexity, and strength.

One young visitor said:

“I came to remember my great grandfather. I left having heard his voice through memory. That felt like peace.”

At Nutkhut, we believe creativity belongs everywhere. From bustling urban squares to quiet rural libraries, we are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and inspiring spaces for everyone to gather, share, learn, and create.

“The partnership with Nutkhut has been transformative. Our library has become a space where creativity thrives, and our community feels truly welcomed and inspired.” – Farnborough Library.

Through our public events programme, Nutkhut collaborates with libraries and public spaces across the country to bring people together. What begins as an invitation to experience art often blossoms into a wider journey of connection, creativity, and community.

Libraries, once seen solely as repositories of books, are now evolving into vibrant community hubs. They are meeting places, creative labs, and gateways to a world of ideas and possibilities. As we work alongside libraries, our ambition is clear: to create welcoming environments where everyone feels empowered to participate, contribute, and grow.

But creativity shouldn’t belong to a privileged few. Too often, the arts world feels exclusive—constrained by gatekeepers who inadvertently or intentionally limit access to those outside established networks. This approach can leave many feeling creativity is something reserved for others, rather than a shared right.

At Nutkhut, we challenge that mindset. We believe everyone is an artist, with something valuable to offer the cultural landscape. Our work aims to break down barriers and invite everyone to participate in a creative dialogue that values all voices equally. Creativity is not about ego or exclusion—it’s about collective growth, exchange, and empowerment.

“Nutkhut’s events bring new life to our library. It’s not just about reading; it’s about experiencing and expressing creativity in ways that resonate with everyone.”

The response from residents and participants has been overwhelmingly positive:

“I’ve been coming to this library for years, but it’s never felt so alive. Nutkhut’s events make everyone feel like they belong.” – Priya, Library User, Farnborough.

“It’s not just art or storytelling – it’s a whole experience that leaves you feeling connected and uplifted.” – David, Workshop Participant.

Nutkhut’s work in libraries and public spaces is about more than events. It’s about nurturing creative ecosystems that encourage participation, dialogue, and the sharing of stories. Our approach is rooted in the belief that creativity is a tool for empowerment, resilience, and positive change.

As we continue to expand our work with libraries and public spaces, we invite everyone to join us in reimagining these vital places. After all, libraries are not just for books. They are for people, creativity, and the collective exchange of ideas.

The Active Rushmoor Sports and Physical Activities Day at Farnborough Rugby Club was a resounding success, with Bollywood dance led by Aldershot based, Paul Gurung of Nutkhut stealing the spotlight. Local residents were energised by the fun, high-energy workout.

“It was such a great way to stay fit and have fun!” said Sarah, a local participant.

“I loved the music and the moves—it didn’t feel like exercise at all!” added Mark, another attendee.

The event proved that fitness can be both enjoyable and vibrant and glitzy!

(image Mayor of Rushmoor, Paul from Nutkhut with participants)