GEORGE King Architects has been appointed to design and create a new public space and art piece in Aberdeen to remember those who died during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The memorial space, which will be located in Bon Accord Gardens, is being delivered by Greenspace Scotland and is funded by the Scottish Government.
Earlier phases of the project involved local artists being commissioned to consult with communities to collate ideas that suitably reflected local people’s experiences of the pandemic.
The results of the initial consultation highlighted that the main considerations were ensuring a location with green space that was accessible for all and with ample room for people to gather with space for healing and reflection.
The art piece featuring in the new public space will be constructed from upcycled local granite, with George King Architects creating the piece.
George King, of George King Architects, said, “We are honoured to have been selected as the designers of such an important new public space and art piece. Our design encapsulates the city’s resilience, strength, and unity in the face of adversity.
“We wanted to reflect this within the design creating a contemporary reinterpretation of a traditional Scottish Cairn made entirely from upcycled granite salvaged from the city itself and given new life within the memorial. Engraved on the rear of each stone will be lines from a newly commissioned poem, written by a local poet and inspired by the experiences of the local community during the pandemic.”
Councillor Miranda Radley, convener of Aberdeen City Council’s communities, housing, and public protection committee, said, “I am pleased to see the creation of Aberdeen’s Covid Memorial has moved into its final stages with the appointment of the artist to create this poignant tribute within our city.
“Taking on board the ideas from the public consultation is vitally important to ensure the finished memorial reflects the wishes of the people most impacted by the pandemic. I look forward to seeing the finished memorial in situ at Bon Accord Gardens later this year.”
