Art / college green
Flags form artwork paying tribute to NHS
More than 100 flags made from hospital bed sheets have been installed on College Green.
Luke Jerram’s In Memoriam aims to act as both a memorial to the losses experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic as well as a tribute to NHS staff and key workers.
Seen from above, the artwork – which was previously installed on the beach at Weston-super-Mare – makes a blue cross on a white background.
is needed now More than ever
In Memoriam was originally commissioned in 2020 to mark the merger of University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS trusts.
Due to the pandemic, however, this is its first appearance in Bristol, with the artwork being on display on College Green until October 17.
Jerram said that he is “really proud” to have created the artwork, which initially was meant to mark excess deaths caused by government austerity, before now being recontextualised.
He told Bristol24/7: “People seem to have really valued it. There is a lot of people grieving and the artwork is also a tribute to NHS workers who have been risking their lives.”
Anna Farthing, arts programme director of UHBW NHS Trust, added: “We haven’t had a place to come together for a while for that collective experience. What I love about this artwork is it provides that space.”
Seen from above, In Memoriam forms a blue cross – photo: Lorne Kramer
The initiative is supported by the Bristol’s City Centre & High Streets Recovery and Renewal programme, funded by Bristol City Council and WECA’s Love our High Streets project, as well as Bristol City Centre BID.
Vicky Lee from Bristol City Centre BID said: “Our Love Bristol campaign invites everyone back to the city centre and all our amazing shops, restaurants and bars, creating moments of joy on the streets of Bristol.
“This is a great initiative from our partners UHBW. In Memoriam is a beautiful multi-sensory experience and will look stunning on location in College Green.
“We want to encourage everyone to explore, while also remembering to be kind, safe and respectful of each other’s space.”
Main photo and video: Lorne Kramer / Under the Wing Productions
Read more:
- Luke Jerram reveals AstraZeneca vaccine sculpture
- Beautiful Luke Jerram artwork donated to University of Bristol
- Breakfast With Bristol24/7: Luke Jerram
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