Memory is a cornerstone of human existence, shaping identity, guiding decisions, and connecting us to the past. Remembering fosters a sense of self and continuity, allowing us to learn from experiences and build personal and collective narratives. Positive memories provide joy and resilience, while collective memories bind communities through shared history and traditions. Conversely, forgetting is equally vital, decluttering the mind and enabling focus on the present. It also aids emotional healing by letting go of negative or traumatic experiences, fostering forgiveness and growth, especially in an era where technology preserves the past indefinitely.
Creating loving memories enriches lives and leaves a lasting legacy. This project commemorates global locations with plaques, reflecting on the duality of remembrance: who remembers, what is remembered, and how these acts shape new experiences for others. By occupying public space with these plaques, the project echoes the Situationists’ concept of détournement, repurposing everyday environments to provoke thought and challenge conventional perceptions of memory and place. The plaques invite passersby to engage with the spaces around them, transforming mundane locations into sites of reflection and connection.
Balancing remembering and forgetting allows us to cherish the past while actively shaping a fulfilling future, enhancing personal well-being and positively impacting those around us. Through this interplay, we not only honor our memories but also reimagine public spaces as dynamic arenas for collective meaning and interaction.
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