British artist Anya Gallaccio has been selected to create a new AIDS memorial in London, located on South Crescent, Store Street, Fitzrovia. Scheduled to be unveiled in late 2027, the installation will resemble a felled tree, with growth rings removed and arranged next to the tree, representing the void left by those who have lost their lives to the disease. The work is Gallaccio’s first permanent public artwork in London and will showcase her unique use of organic materials that change over time.
“The current proposal preserves the space, intended to provide a gathering place, a center for community events and oral history,” said Galacio. “Trees are a symbol of life. The plane trees along Crescent Street are found throughout the city for good reason, they protect against pollution. They are survivors, surviving despite the harsh environment, a clumsy but perhaps apt metaphor for people living with HIV and AIDS. They are hiding in plain sight.”
The project was commissioned by the charity AIDS Memory UK (AMUK), with support from London Mayor Sadiq Khan and funding from the Public Domain Diversity Commission in the form of a £130,000 ($165,500) grant. AMUK aims to highlight the ongoing impact of HIV/AIDS, particularly its disproportionate impact on gay and bisexual men, black communities, injecting drug users and people with bleeding disorders.
A jury chaired by AMUK trustee and Arts&Heritage CEO Stephanie Allen selected Galacio from a shortlist of five artists including Ryan Gander, Harold Offeh, Shahpour Pouyan and Diana Puntar.
