I read with interest the letters published on 2 December about Gerald Holtom (Peace symbol sketches reveal artist’s thinking). Gerald was my great-uncle, and our family (now spread out over the country and further afield) very much agree with Ian Jack (The peace sign made it from Finsbury Park to Paris. Its creator should be honoured, 28 November) and the other contributors on the idea of creating some sort of a memorial for him.
I found out from Ian’s article that the offices where Gerald first showed the design are around the corner from my flat in Finsbury Park. I have been in touch with some local residents who have already started to make a case for a memorial plaque to the council.
I don’t remember Gerald because I was only two or three when he died, but there are many stories; he was quite a character. I remember his daughters Anna and Rebecca (my dad’s cousins) at various times explaining the thought process behind the symbol’s design. As mentioned in one letter, Gerald was always adamant that the upside-down cross and any anti-religious sentiment read into the symbol was accidental. It was simply based on man, arms outstretched downwards, in deep despair.
Having recently become more active in the anti-war movement, I understand that despair at humanity and longing for a conflict-free world more than ever now. I’m proud that the symbol has become such a universal sign of hope and peace. Remembering its designer seems timely and right.
Rosie Holtom
London
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