Annual Ceramic Poppy Installation Honors Those Who Served

As the Riverhead Central School District has recognized our nation, its flag, and those who served during recent holidays, Riverhead High School displayed its annual ceramic poppy installation outside the entrance of Calverton National Cemetery in honor of Memorial Day. Art teachers Debbie Cantalupo, Selena Pagliarulo, and Katy Wilkinson organize the project each year, and the collection now includes over 1,400 handcrafted poppies created by Riverhead High School students. Each poppy symbolizes the sacrifices made by those who served our country.

Riverhead’s display was inspired by a 2014 large-scale art installation, “Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red,” at the Tower of London. The tower’s moat was filled with 888,246 ceramic red poppies, each honoring a service member who lost their life in World War I.

Riverhead High School students showcase ceramic poppies honoring those who served.

Riverhead High School students hold ceramic poppies recognizing those who served.

Riverhead High School’s ceramic poppy art display is installed.

Riverhead High School’s ceramic poppy art installation at Calverton National Cemetery honors those who served.

Riverhead High School’s ceramic poppies are carefully installed at the entrance of the cemetery.

Riverhead High School’s ceramic poppies line the entrance of Calverton National Cemetery.