More than 80 guests gathered to mark the launch of a community-created art installation designed to encourage conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.
Organisers unveiled the Garden of Hope installation at Belton House, near Grantham, on Saturday (March 14), where visitors explored the colourful display and reflected on the stories behind each butterfly.
The installation features 98 steel butterflies, representing the 98 suicides recorded in Lincolnshire in 2024, while also symbolising hope and connection within the community.
Launch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Organisers Jack and Jenni Swift. Photo: Iliffe Media/David Lowndes
Jenni Swift, co-founder of Evelyn’s Butterfly Effect, said the launch brought together families, friends and participants who helped create the project.
“The event went really well. We were joined by over 80 guests, including friends, family, and the participants who had painted butterflies,” she said.
“We were also honoured to welcome the chairman of Lincolnshire County Council and the chairman of South Kesteven District Council, which meant a great deal to us.”
Launch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Visitors to the event. Photo: Iliffe Media/David Lowndes
Jenni and her husband Jack started Evelyn’s Butterfly Effect in memory of their 15-year-old daughter Evelyn Gibson, who died in 2022.
The couple delivered a speech during the installation’s launch event, while Wendy Robinson from the suicide prevention charity CALM also addressed attendees.
Jenni described the day as both uplifting and emotional.
“It was a beautiful day with blue skies, and it was lovely to see so many people exploring the installation and talking together,” she said.
Launch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Visitors at the event. Photo: Iliffe Media/David Lowndes
“Knowing the stories and the heartbreak behind each butterfly made the moment feel incredibly emotional.”
Schools, families and community groups from across the county painted the butterflies, with participants ranging from nursery children to residents in retirement communities.
Jenni said more than 1,000 people contributed to the project.
Launch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Jack and Jenni Swift opening with event. Photo: Iliffe Media/David Lowndes
“Every butterfly has been designed by local schools and community groups, each sharing their own take on what hope means,” she said.
“The support we’ve had from the local community has been incredible.”
Launch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Photo: Iliffe Media/David Lowndes
Jenni said the finished garden represents both remembrance and hope.
“The most powerful thing for us is seeing people stop and interact with the installation,” she said.
“It’s sparking important conversations and that is what it is all about.
Launch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Visitors to the event Rowland and Beryl Shores. Photo: Iliffe Media/David Lowndes
“We know the word ‘suicide’ can feel daunting, but by talking about it, we can smash the stigma and instead plant seeds of hope.”
The Garden of Hope will now tour venues across Lincolnshire throughout the year, encouraging communities to reflect, connect and talk openly about mental health.
After finishing at Belton House on April 18, the installation will move to Gunby Hall from April 20 to May 9.
Launch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Photo: Iliffe Media/David LowndesLaunch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Jack and Jenni Swift with their volunteers. Photo: Iliffe Media/David LowndesLaunch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Photo: Iliffe Media/David LowndesLaunch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Photo: Iliffe Media/David LowndesLaunch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Photo: Iliffe Media/David LowndesLaunch of Evelyn’s Butterfly Trust garden at the Belton Estate. Photo: Iliffe Media/David Lowndes
The installation will then move to Ayscoughfee Hall, near Spalding, from May 11 to May 30, Burghley House, near Stamford, from June 1 to June 20, Whisby Nature Park, near Lincoln, from June 22 to July 18, and Grantham House from July 20 to September 30.
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