Artists to create a permanent Covid memorial in Sheffield

Artists in Sheffield were being briefed about plans for a permanent city centre Covid memorial, planned to open next spring. 

The memorial, which will be located in Balm Green Gardens, will be a long-lasting and creative tribute to people who lost their lives, worked hard to keep others safe, and have been affected by Covid.

Councillor Terry Fox, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “Covid was difficult for everyone in all sorts of ways, but for some people its effects will last a lifetime. 

“We are acutely aware that some groups were disproportionately affected by Covid, and we are committed to making sure their voices are reflected in this memorial and committed to reducing the inequalities we see in the city as much as we can.”

This is the second phase of the Covid memorial programme, where artists will be asked to propose their ideas for how a memorial tree will reflect the thoughts, themes and sentiments gathered from ‘Stories from the pandemic’– the first part of the memorial programme.

To reflect the city’s heritage, cast and fabricated metal will be used to constrain the memorial alongside stone, ceramic, cast glass or other durable materials.

The design will allow people to connect with it either by reading the stories and messages it holds or by attaching temporary messages or ribbons. 

Sheffield Museums on behalf of Sheffield City Council, is looking for artists with experience of producing work in the public realm and engaging with diverse, under-represented communities to develop ideas, build a sense of ownership and strengthen cultural provision. 

It is expected that an artist will be selected by the end of October and the artwork installed in Balm Green Gardens by Spring 2023.