Arches Festivals provides a place to remember those affected by COVID-19 and thank our NHS workers

Written by Arches Festivals

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27th October 2020

Luke Jerram‘s In Memoriam, generated local interest and positive comments from thousands during its 9 day visit to Worcester. The ceremonial art installation was created as a memorial to those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and to pay tribute to the NHS staff and volunteers who have worked so tirelessly to care for so many.

As well as bringing this wonderful art installation to Worcester, the programme also included some special performances within the memorial that visitors would just happen upon. Whilst this hasn’t been possible in quite the same way we imagined, the performances have still taken place and have been beautifully captured on film. Be sure to check out all the videos from In Memoriam by watching our playlist on YouTube or below.

Created from 120 bed sheets, In Memoriam is intended to be a symbol of local, national and international solidarity. Visitors were able to reflect and remember those affected by COVID-19 whilst thanking our NHS and Key Workers. Read about what the installation meant to local NHS workers.

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Dog Walkers pause whilst exploring the flags of In Memoriam by Luke Jerram

Ellie Dart Young, Worcestershire Young Poet Laureate 2020, performs her poem “Finding Hope”, amongst In Memoriam by Luke Jerram

Dancer Sam Buswell from 2Faced Dance Company performs beneath the flags of In Memoriam by Luke Jerram

In Memoriam visited Worcester for 9 days and can be seen here from above with local landmarks in the distance

(photos by Ravi Lakhani and Helen George)

In Memoriam is 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.