Kahikatea Memorial Sculpture

On Saturday I went to a memorial Service for this who had died in the February Earthquake. It was a beautiful, moving peaceful service attended by many Japanese families, including the architect of the Transitional Cathedral, Shigeru Ban , who had come to Christchurch especially to be there. A Japanese choir sang and the Kahikatea memorial sculpture to the victims of the earthquake from Japan and other countries was blessed.
I had seen the sculpture previously but it was only when it was in situ in the Cathedral that I realised the amazing connection that it had with the building. The triangular shape of the sculpture echoing the shape of the cathedral. the trunks of the tree shapes connected with the chair backs and column structures of some of the other furniture. The crystal-like pinnacle captured the light, as does the cathedral roof.

Commissioned by David Bolam-Smith, Artist Annable Menzies-Joyce and Lighting Designer Kevin Cawley.

"The sculpture commemorates the 28 Japanese and all others who perished in the Christchurch Earthquakes on 22nd February 2011.The lighting design for the Sculpture was gifted by Kevin. My contribution of light to the Sculpture was to shine as a beacon of love and support.
The Base of the sculpture represents the NZ Native Tree “Kahikatea” The Kahikatea tree grows in clumps, with the roots and branches into twined like us today standing together with arms linked. The Kahikatea tree grows tall and strong like a parents love for their children, the glass peak represents pure running water of a mountain stream flowing from the mountain top,the sprit of love ones can travel to this world and return to heaven down this river similar to theLanterns returning the spirits on the River during OBON week." www.lightingdesign.co.nz

A piece about the white chairs to follow!