A permanent memorial to humanitarian aid workers, designed by the renowned artist Michael Landy RA, has received planning approval from the London Borough of Hounslow on 9 July 2024.
Gunnersbury Park was chosen for its serene environment and accessibility to both national and international visitors. This significant memorial will be located a few metres to the south of the historic round pond, accessed by a new pathway and sympathetically nestled within the mature trees which screen the memorial from the large mansion housing the museum.
In 2015, a Steering Committee of prominent UK-based humanitarians was established with the vision of creating a lasting tribute to humanitarian aid workers. The Contemporary Art Society (CAS) was tasked with commissioning a contemporary artist for this important project. Following a thorough selection process, Michael Landy RA was chosen to bring this vision to life.
Landy’s design features a circle of 15 human-scale figures, grouped in fives, with spaces allowing visitors to ‘complete the circle.’ These figures will display humanitarian stories and images, providing a powerful visual narrative of humanitarian aid work for visitors of all ages. The memorial aims not only to honour those who have lost their lives while helping others but also to celebrate the ongoing dedication and sacrifices of humanitarian workers globally.
Gunnersbury Park, with its ample space for quiet reflection, will serve as a fitting backdrop for this memorial. The site will also host an annual commemoration on World Humanitarian Day, observed on 17th August, as designated by the United Nations.
David Bowler, CEO of Gunnersbury Park, commented:
“We are honoured to have Gunnersbury Park chosen as the site for this significant memorial. It stands as a testament to the noble tradition of humanitarian work. Gunnersbury Park has an important heritage landscape that offers an ideal place for quiet reflection and a well established education programme which will highlight and explore the vital contributions of aid workers worldwide. Our role at Gunnersbury is to offer visitors a rich variety of experiences, and to support our local community to share in the proud honour that this memorial symbolises.”
The UK boasts a proud history of supporting those affected by global humanitarian crises, with its charities and aid organisations renowned worldwide. Humanitarian aid workers are often deployed to some of the most challenging environments, from Afghanistan to the Philippines, and from Colombia to Mozambique. Despite this, there has been no dedicated site in the UK or globally for families, friends, and colleagues to gather in remembrance and celebration of these selfless individuals.
This memorial aims to fill that void, recognising not only those who have perished in the line of duty but also those who continue to be driven by humanitarian principles. It is a celebration of lives dedicated to humanity, independence, and impartiality, and a means to raise awareness of the achievements and challenges in delivering life-saving aid.
Photo Credit: Michael Landy, 2024
