1 October Memorial
A unity ribbon of rememberance.
1 October Memorial
The powerful resonance of collective loss, the palpable resilience of bereaved families, the intricate emotions borne by survivors, and the indomitable spirit of unity demonstrated by the community have been the compass of our design journey for the Unity Ribbon Memorial.
From the inception of this project, community outreach has been paramount. Recognizing the myriad experiences and needs, we ensured the memorial design was shaped by those it aims to serve. Building on the foundational efforts by the committee, we adopted a comprehensive approach: design-specific surveys, community workshops, and personal dialogues. The synthesis of these insights painted a poignant picture that became the essence of our design.
Within this sanctuary, spaces are designed to reflect the gamut of human emotions: joy and grief, reflection and hope. They stand as an open invitation to every individual, recognizing that healing is a journey with its unique pace.
As this project evolves, our dedication remains unwavering. The Unity Ribbon Memorial is more than a physical structure; it is the embodiment of the community's spirit, a tribute to unity in the face of profound loss. Among five finalists, our proposal stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit and the power of collective resilience.
Design Team: studioSTIGSGAARD and Aaron Neubert Architects collaboration
Landscape: Agency Artifact
Exhibitions: Gallagher & Associates
Lighting: L’Observatoire
Glenn Kaino: Artist
Engineering / Civil: Labib Funk
Composer & Sound Artist: Benjamin Wynn
Our guiding light has been twofold: honoring the cherished lives lost and creating a sanctuary that encapsulates the diverse healing journeys of those left behind. The memorial draws inspiration from the community’s fervor for country music, the mesmerizing Las Vegas landscapes, and the resilient spirit that has long been the hallmark of the city.
Natural elements, like the enduring force of the Colorado River cutting through the Mojave Desert, the mellifluous curve of a guitar, the stalwart silhouette of a cactus, and the timeless fossil beds of Tule Springs, have informed our design. The result? The Unity Ribbon, a delicate balance of strength and transparency. Rising harmoniously from the ground, it demarcates a sacred space of remembrance, shielding it from the city's vibrant pulse, yet maintaining a visual connection to the environment, underlining a sense of openness and unity.
