AIDS Memory UK is delighted to confirm that planning permission has now been approved for The AIDS Memorial in London, to be created by British artist Anya Gallaccio, at South Crescent, Store Street, Fitzrovia.
The memorial will take the form of a felled tree, with rings extracted from its core and displayed upright nearby, creating a powerful and contemplative space for remembrance, reflection and solidarity for all those affected by HIV/AIDS – past, present and future.
Developed by AIDS Memory UK, the project raises awareness of the continuing impact of HIV/AIDS and honours communities disproportionately affected, while also establishing a new public arts space for performance, gathering and community engagement.
Following a rigorous and transparent planning process, approval marks a major milestone for the project and clears the way for the next phase of development and fundraising.
Anya Gallaccio was selected for The AIDS Memorial by a panel of judges from a shortlist of five artists. The curatorial process and the creation of the memorial is led by public art consultants Modus Operandi.
Anya Gallaccio, Artist, said:
“I’m so grateful that we can now move forward. The work has grown from the desire to hold space, to remember those lost across many communities but very importantly a place to gather and celebrate resilience and give voice to stories of care and collective memory. The work is not a monument to a historic event, but I hope an active space to bring into view that this is still a pressing and current issue.”
The Affected Communities Advisory Board (ACAB), comprising representatives from affected communities, was consulted during the selection process.
Ash Kotak, Founder and Artistic Director, AIDS Memory UK, said:
“It’s been a long battle, 10 years to get to this point of the campaign. It’s been hard work and challenging at times but it’s also been an ambition driving by memory and remembrance. Many of my friends died including partners, Nigel Finch and John Blake. I miss them all still and so today it’s especially moving for me, that the epoch they died in is to be remembered. HIV and AIDS changed London, Britain and the world. Nothing was the same ever again. As we approach 50 years since doctors in the USA first identified issues in their patients, it is fitting that we deliver
The AIDS Memorial in London to remember those who died, to acknowledge the struggle many of us survivors endured, to keep us fighting on towards an HIV & AIDS free world and to end HIV stigma at a time when we have the tools now so that nobody acquires HIV today as people on life saving medications cannot pass it on (U=U) and there is also PrEP and condoms. Further no one needs to die of an AIDS defining illness anymore but that takes commitment, strategy and for a collective approach to ensure we reach our goal. It can happen. We must keep fighting”
Stephanie Allen, Chair of the Board of Trustees, AIDS Memory UK, said:
“Planning approval represents a vital moment for the charity and for the many people who have contributed to this project with such generosity and rigour. The process has been complex and exacting, and we are proud that the memorial has met that challenge thanks to the hard work and effort of everyone involved in this important memorial.”
Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, said:
“The AIDS Memorial in London will be a space of remembrance for the lasting impact that HIV and AIDS has had on so many people and communities across our city. I am glad that it is a step closer to being a reality today, as we continue the work to combat stigma, end transmissions, and build a fairer, healthier London for everyone.”
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has committed £130,000 funding from the Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm towards the memorial.
To help contribute to the establishment of the memorial, donate today.
