ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses temporary memorials honoring deceased individuals that have been created by activist organizations and artists who utilize artistic methods to generate awareness around a specific issue area. These memorials often use the formal tactic of correlating one object to one life lost and are explored in relationship to aesthetic corollaries including cemeteries, permanent memorials, artistic vigils, data art, and minimal art. Case studies given include Eyes Wide Open, a memorial initiated by American Friends Service Committee exhibiting soldiers’ boots representing veterans killed in the Iraq War from 2004, and numerous temporary memorials addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. These memorials are considered through their primary audience in public space and their secondary audience reached through press coverage and social media with attention given to related discourses such as tactical media, socially engaged art, and public monuments.
