Arts / Artists commissioned for Covid memorial project
NINE artists have been commissioned for a Covid memorial project which addresses the impact of the pandemic through artistic expression.
The value of the commissions is worth £70,000 in total.
It is part of the Remember Together Covid Community Memorial Project, a national scheme which is being administered by Shetland Arts locally.
The project aims to create five memorials alongside a commemorative book.
Each of the five memorials will receive a commission worth up to £10,000, covering artist fees, travel expenses and materials.
The culmination of these projects will be captured in a commemorative book, ensuring a lasting legacy, Shetland Arts said.
Additionally, four others will each receive a £5,000 commission to document the journey and compile the memorial book.
Renzo Spiteri’s project will feature new music composed with a string quartet, incorporating spoken word, soundscapes and field recordings of Shetland’s natural environment.
Helen Robertson is crafting 21 glass plaques to be distributed to all 18 community councils across the isles.
Additionally, a flag printed with the same design will be flown annually from Lerwick Town Hall on the date lockdown was lifted.
Heather Christie’s memorial focuses on fostering self-care within the Bressay community through a comprehensive guide and map of local resources, developed in collaboration with community groups and artist Aimee Labourne.
Malcolm Innes will work with music students at Mareel to produce a captivating light installation and visual projections at key locations across the isles throughout March to May.
Meanwhile JJ Jamieson will create a unique film to be screened at Mareel and online, reflecting on lockdown with community members and incorporating authentic sounds of Covid-affected environments.
Genevieve White (writer), Niamh Wylie (photographer), Chloe Keppie (book designer) and Liz Musser (videographer) will be on hand to document the creative process.
Shetland Arts creative project manager Kathryn Spence said: “We are delighted to support so many talented artists in Shetland. Each artist is collaborating with fellow artists or engaging directly with the community to bring their memorials to life.
“This project embodies a true sense of unity and community spirit, stirring up memories of the solidarity felt during the lockdown period. Moreover, we’re excited about the diverse range of art forms represented in these memorials; craft, music, multimedia, and print.”
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