In essence , what I would hope to suggest is , first , that we need to conceive a new approach to memory and memorialization in the public domain , one that understands memory as an action – a verb – rather than an object or a noun . Second , I believe we should attempt to broaden the understanding and sense of the word “ memory ” – which as a subject in the last few years of discussions about public space has come to mean , almost exclusively , evoking traumatic histories and events ( this is a complex issue that should be further amplified and elaborated ). Third , I think we should reimagine works and practices across many disciplines , including architecture , design , public art , and cultural activism , in relation to history and memory , with a renewed sense of public agency and purpose .
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Figure 6 - Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery , Nantes , France - Image : Philippe Ruault | Courtesy : Wodiczko + Bonder
Memory-Works / Projects
Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery in Nantes , France
Wodiczko + Bonder
The Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery in Nantes , France was designed by our transdisciplinary-collaborative firm Wodiczko + Bonder , established by artist Krzysztof Wodiczko and myself to focus on art and design projects that engage public space and raise the issues of social memory , survival , struggle , and emancipation . overview
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