The site at Chinguacousy Park, known as the "Land of the Tall Pines," features a design that explores memory and community connection through its thoughtful relationship with nature. The concept draws from the pine tree and its cones, using them to symbolize often-overlooked lives and their significance. The intent is to create a space where people can reflect and engage with the stories being told, turning a typical memorial experience into one that invites participation and deeper understanding.

Design Concept

The design encourages visitors to interact by collecting fallen pine cones, fostering an active reflection on the experiences being commemorated. This shift transforms the act of remembrance into a personal engagement with the narratives of those honored. With a diameter of 3.7 meters and a height of approximately 3000 mm, the structure is designed for easy access, allowing everyone who visits the park to connect with it.

Kinetic System

A significant feature of the design is the kinetic system that responds to the natural humidity found in pine cones. This system illustrates weight differences, highlighting the contrast between the lightness of individual experiences and their deep collective importance. The movement within the structure represents the ongoing conversation between memory and life, adding a dynamic element that encourages visitor participation.

Materiality

The project utilizes materials such as rusty copper and glinded copper, which provide contrasting visual elements related to the theme of memory. These materials are paired with components like steel wire clips, steel wire, copper rings, and netting systems, all of which contribute to the overall structure. The choice of materials emphasizes the themes of recycling and transformation, reinforcing the connection to nature and the experiences being remembered.

Design Integration

The design integrates smoothly with its natural surroundings, creating a space that invites contemplation and engagement. The elements of the structure are meant to spark thought and promote a deeper appreciation for the lives honored. The careful arrangement culminates in a representation of how memory and existence interact, offering a reminder of the stories embedded in nature.