EMBRACED LOOP is an HIV and AIDS NATIONAL MONUMENT installed at Phoenix Park in Dublin, Ireland.
The monument is designed to express solidarity with everyone, past and present, who has been affected by HIV and AIDS, to remember those who have died, and to celebrate their lives and all who supported them.
The participatory artwork uses as a concept an abstraction form of the HIV symbol, the red ribbon to create a parametric shape where the rope loop closes creating an embrace of solidarity, where people can hang out together, bringing a feeling of community.
The curved shape searches for the expression of lightness out of the heaviness of the metal, bringing a feeling of fluctuation and elasticity that comes out of the heavy and strong metal, conceptually representing hope out of sadness.
Three curves are manipulated to create an entrancing loop that anchors the ground in three points and fluctuates into suspended seats facing each other, creating a space of warmth and connection where people will be looking and talking to each other inside an embracing loop that promotes connection, contemplation, healing, and reflection.
The artwork uses digital parametric fabrication to create a unique symbol that brings hope out of sadness and promotes contemplation, healing, and reflection to the community visiting the monument.
The sculpture was made with corten steel panels because over time it turns deep rusty red, conceptually retaining its relevance with the passage of time and connecting with the red ribbon for awareness.
The wood seats protect the visitors from the dirty dust of the corten steel keeping the seat areas clean.
The sculpture uses durable and weather-resistant materials, suitable for the harsh weather of Dublin. Safety is a primary factor.
The project was unveiled by Prime Minister Taoiseach Leo Varadkar in DECEMBER 2023.
Credits:
Commissioned by OPW - Office of Public Works
Designed with Michael R. DiCarlo
Fabricated by BA Steel Fabrications
Project Management by Anaisa Franco Studio
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With the comissioner OPW - Office for Public Works in Dublin
With Prime Minister of Dublin during Unveiling of the artwork.
COMPETITION RENDERS AND VIDEO
3D PRINTED Model 1:20 for competition
