Memorial/UnMemorial

As a practicing artist, Stevenson embarked on a poignant year-long durational performance to mark the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. From February 14, 2023, to February 14, 2024, she crossed the UK/Ireland border daily, reciting the names and ages of those whose anniversaries of death, fatal injury, or disappearance coincided with each date. Titled Memorial/UnMemorial, the work explores the themes of remembrance and memorialization in Northern Ireland’s contemporary context. Serving as both a memorial and an “unmemorial,” it questioned the necessity or absence of a collective memorial, inviting viewers to reflect on these complexities.

Stevenson created a 3’15” film as the culmination of this journey, using daily footage and soundtracks. The film was shown in March 2024 at Belfast Exposed Photography Gallery in a curated reflective space that allowed visitors to engage with the narrative at their own pace, prompting contemplation on the legacy of conflict and the impact of memorialization. Belfast Exposed, known for showcasing thought-provoking narratives and visual stories, provided an ideal setting for Memorial/UnMemorial. The institution’s commitment to inclusivity, engagement, and amplifying diverse voices aligned with the essence of the film. Viewers could explore the visual narrative individually, bridging the gap between personal stories and collective history, fostering understanding, dialogue, and collective remembrance. The daily recitation of names and ages emphasized the universal impact of conflict on individuals, echoing Belfast Exposed’s dedication to truth-telling and confronting challenging realities. This commitment is reflected in the concept of the “persistence of the present past,” as described by Declan Long in Ghost-Haunted Land (Manchester University Press, 2020, p. 201).

The screening at Belfast Exposed on Donegall Street was particularly significant, commemorating events such as the March 20 anniversary of the Donegall Street bombings in 1972, which killed seven people and injured 148. The intentional choice of Valentine’s Day highlighted the belief that every individual is a ‘loved one,’ transcending perceived victim hierarchies. In this collaboration, “Memorial/UnMemorial” became not just a film screening but a dialogue between past and present, an ode to remembrance, and a critique of collective memorialization. It converged narratives, testified to shared values, and invited the audience to reflect on the ongoing legacy of conflict. The collaboration created an immersive experience resonating with cultural enrichment, social understanding, and artistic expression. A panel discussion with myself, Dr. Gail Ritchie, and Dr. Paul Mullan explored the themes of “Memorial/UnMemorial.” Hosted by Deirdre Robb, Chief Executive of Belfast Exposed, it took place in Gallery 1 on Thursday, March 21, 2024, as part of the Imagine! Belfast Festival of Ideas & Politics.

Gwen Stevenson (Artist)

Collaborating Organisations