Global monument to John Lennon: model unveiled for first time

A spectacular hand painted scale model of the 18ft peace monument to John Lennon will be unveiled at the Liverpool Pavilion in Shanghai World Expo, China on 15 June.

The finished monument, which cost $350,000 to create, will stand 18ft tall and 11ft wide, weighing 4.5 tonnes. It is being made from a mixture of brushed aluminium, acrylic and an indestructible coating to stave off the weather.

John Lennon's son, Julian will unveil the final monument in Liverpool in October 2010 as part of the city's two-month season of events to commemorate the former Beatle's 70th birthday and the 30th anniversary of his untimely death.

The monument has been created by American teen art prodigy Lauren Voiers and will act as a counterbalance to the Strawberry Fields memorial in New York's Central Park. Although fans flock to the famous memorial in New York, where Lennon was killed, a similar spot has never been designated in Lennon's hometown to celebrate his life.

To correct this, US organisation Global Peace Initiative, will present the monument to the world's leading permanent Beatles-themed visitor attraction, the Beatles Story in Liverpool, UK. The monument will be sited in a significant position within the city.

The design, which at the request of Lennon son's Julian will incorporate a White Feather, symbolising both his father's spirit and peace, will also include themes signifying freedom and harmony such as doves and music notes. The monument has been titled ‘Peace and Harmony'.

This is the second in a series of monuments commissioned by Global Peace Initiative. Their aim is to place a peace monument in each of the world's seven continents and spread artistic symbols of peace across the globe. The first monument was presented to the President of Singapore on behalf of the people of Asia in 2005.

Jerry Goldman, MD of the Beatles Story said, "Liverpool is the only city in the UK to have a dedicated presence at the Shanghai World Expo and we thought it was a perfect place to give the world a glimpse of this new global peace monument to John Lennon. We've long needed a place of pilgrimage in John's home town for people wishing to remember one of the world's most influential icons, complementing the Strawberry Fields memorial in New York."

Ben Valenty, Director of Global Peace Initiative said, "We are very proud that Asia accepted the first of our seven global peace monuments. It is therefore very fitting that we unveil this second monument destined for Europe here in Shanghai."

Mike Taylor, Director of Investment and Enterprise at Liverpool Vision said: "We're delighted that this important monument will be unveiled to the world in the Liverpool Pavilion at Shanghai World Expo. It's fitting that John Lennon's unique contribution to popular culture and world peace is recognised with this tribute, which will be on permanent display in his home city."

Media enquiries: Rowan Atkins M: 07834 158 725 rowan@rowanatkins.co.uk