In a gesture to honor the memory of the more than 3,100 Baltimore County residents whose lives were claimed by COVID-19, local officials have inaugurated a new public art installation at Lake Roland. According to NottinghamMD, the COVID-19 Memorial Public Art Project, designed by artist James Dinh, is the first of its kind commissioned by Baltimore County. It features a pathway, gathering circle, and inscribed mending wall, including personalized poems and stories detailing the pandemic's toll.
Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski spoke at the unveiling, emphasizing the county's commitment to recognizing the profound loss experienced by the community. "More than 3,000 Baltimore County residents lost their lives to the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are committed to honoring their cherished memories and the profound impact they had on our lives and communities," Olszewski stated, as per NottinghamMD.
Selected from 74 submissions, Dinh's design includes a memorial mound with plantings, set fully to provide solace and reflection amidst natural beauty. In a statement detailed by WYPR, Dinh expressed that he aimed to "rebuild families, rebuild our lives," acknowledging that the pandemic had isolated individuals and communities alike.
Baltimore County Recreation and Parks Director Bob Smith notably emphasized the role of parks during the pandemic. Smith has helped serve as a place of solace during challenging times. "Our parks played a vital part during the pandemic," Smith mentioned, as he provided visitor access to Lake Roland with a space akin to a sanctuary for those in mourning. WYPR highlighted Smith's sentiment, pointing to parks as essential during the pandemic.
Public input meetings held with the Baltimore County Arts Guild helped shape the memorial approved by the County Council last year. Supported by multiple county departments, the project stands at Lake Roland, now open daily from sunrise to sunset, as a lasting tribute to those lost or impacted by the pandemic.
