The Memorial Ribbon Wall-
The series of earthquakes that rattled the Canterbury region has affected the lives of thousands of people over the course of the last four long years. The world that they knew before cannot be restored. The Memorial for Canterbury Earthquakes is conceived as a means of constructively using what was lost to build a place of remembrance, as well as a symbol of healing. The ribbon wall that meanders through the site is composed of bricks and stones from the buildings and homes that were destroyed. It thus contains the memories of the past, but lives on as a testament to the collective unity and strength of the community that was built throughout those four years.
Voids within the wall commemorate the part of the community that cannot be made whole once again - the 185 people that lost their lives on 22 February 2011. Visitors can breathe life into the wall by leaving a candle, flower or memento within these recesses to honour their lives. In so doing, the wall also contains the memory of those that perished.
The Grounds-
As the wall traces a course through the grove of mature Horse Chestnut trees and doubles back along the banks of the river, it weaves itself into the site. Spaces of reflection are created within its folds and loops that are intended to honour those who lost their lives, recognize the shared trauma experienced by the people of Canterbury, and acknowledge those who participated in the recovery effort. These spaces are soft and quiet, shielded and inviting,
park-like yet sacred. They are intimate enough for moments of solitary
reflection yet expansive enough to accommodate large gatherings.
Wall Composition-
The wall is composed of reclaimed building material from all over the
Canterbury region. Significant historic structures as well as everyday
buildings and homes will imbue the wall with added significance.
Zones-
- Spring of Reflection - The emergence of the wall beside the water signifies the start of the memorial experience and is a reminder of the thread of history shared by all who visit the memorial.
- Collective Memories - This garden is dedicated to the collective memories of those who survived the earthquakes. Recognition of the seriously injured as well as stories of rescue and triumph during that time are featured here.
- Gallery of Monuments - This garden recalls the loss or damage of many of the region’s heritage buildings as well as a large part of the familiar everyday cityscape.
- In Honour of the Responders - A garden near the centre of the grounds recognises the outpouring of support from at home and abroad during the time of the earthquakes. A Dwarf Kowhai tree represents a gift from the people of Canterbury to the various countries and organisations from around the world who responded with aid.
- Garden of Names - At the heart of the memorial grounds is a space dedicated to the people who died on 22 February, 2011. 185 lighted bronze niches in the wall commemorate each individual.
- Story of Recovery - The final garden symbolizes hope and rebirth. It is a space to celebrate the collective community strength that was born through the recovery effort.
