Symbols of the Alevi faith displayed on zebra crossing in north London

IN north London, this year the “Summer Art Festival” is held differently due to the coronavirus. Permanent works of art for public use are being prepared in different regions of Enfield. Within the scope of the festival, artworks representing their beliefs and cultures were realized at the most popular pedestrian crossings of the district, from artists from five different communities and beliefs.

As part of the festival, the Alevi Federation of Britain was asked to design a pedestrian crossing to reflect the Alevi culture and belief. The pedestrian crossing, whose drawings and design was made by art teacher Hasan Bölücek from the BAF Education Commission, was opened on Monday, February 8.

Talking about the design BAF said:  “ In the Alevi belief, it is believed that life consists of four main elements and there is a colour symbolizing each element. The earth was symbolized by the colour green, water blue, fire orange, and air purple. While the colours used in the crosswalk describe the four elements, the dove figure, which is considered sacred in Alevism, symbolizes peace and freedom. The pigeon, which breaks the purple box in the upper right corner of the design and flies outside – to freedom, sends a salute to everybody who wants to go out and be free in the coronavirus process not only in Enfield but all over the world…”