In Memoriam

In Memoriam is a touring memorial for the public to visit and remember all those we have lost from the COVID-19 pandemic. 120 flags are created from bed sheets and arranged in the form of a medical logo; a tribute to all the healthcare workers and volunteers who have been risking their lives during the crisis.

Referencing those people who have been in hospital and care homes during this crisis, the flags are created from bed sheets and arranged in the form of a medical logo. Presented in the open air and in windy locations, the structure allows people to enter, contemplate and explore the artwork, whilst adhering to the rules of social distancing.

The artwork is both an installation and a venue for events.  Beneath the flags host organisations can programme a series of events for the public to attend and be involved with. This could be a community choir performing at dawn (a dawn chorus), poetry readings, remembrance ceremonies, small classical concerts or dance events. There could be candlelit evenings, memorial ceremonies or events where the flags are used as screens for projection. There could be a place for people to leave messages and flowers. There could be a collection box to allow the public to leave a donation to a local health charity.

In Memoriam can tour the UK and Europe and be presented in different ways, by a series of local host arts organisations. The artwork will be presented on the coast, in city parks and hilltops.

In Memoriam has been designed specifically to be presented in large open and windy spaces. With the expanse of space around them and the strong air flow, the artwork will put people’s minds at rest that they can relax, safely breathe and contemplate the installation.

Luke Jerram’s multidisciplinary practice involves the creation of sculptures, installations and live arts projects. Living in the UK but working internationally for 23 years, Jerram has created a number of extraordinary art projects which have excited and inspired people around the globe. Jerram has a set of different narratives that make up his practice which are developing in parallel with one another. He is known worldwide for his large-scale public artworks.

In 2018 he was Visiting Fellow Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of West of England. In 2020 he received an Honorary Degree – Doctor of Letters from the University of Bristol.

Designed and made by Luke Jerram.

Commissioned by Culture Weston and University Hospitals Bristol & Weston NHS Foundation Trust. Supported by Without Walls and FESTIVAL.ORG. Informed by the Wellcome Trust-funded ‘Weather Lives’ project, led by Dr Cassie Phoenix at Durham University.