Richard Clinton, Chief Executive, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust added: “We are delighted to bring Luke Jerram’s In Memoriam to Northampton. Through the artwork and the accompanying activities, we hope to provide the community with a space to contemplate and process the past two years.”

In Memoriam, was presented on the south lawn of the historic Northampton house, Delapré Abbey, in Spring 2022. Alongside the installation there was a programme of events for the public to attend and engage with. Presented in the open air against the backdrop of the Abbey, the structure – which is arranged in the form of a medical logo – allowed people to enter, contemplate and explore the artwork.

Alongside the exhibition there was artwork created by the local community. In response to In Memoriam, The Curator Educator worked with local schools (Delapre Primary, The Abbey Primary School and Queen Eleanor Primary Academy) to create artwork inspired by Tibetan prayer flags that encapsulates the children’s experiences during the pandemic. These were displayed in the grounds of the Abbey for all to see. Visitors were encouraged to add to the artwork which grew throughout the exhibition.

In addition, Warts and All Theatre exhibited responses to a community call-out. 50 quotes, feelings and thoughts from local residents, reflecting on the pandemic, were exhibited on large boards around the grounds of the Abbey.

The programme of activities and events for the public to get involved in included:

• Walking events
• Grief Gatherings 
• Photography workshops
• Creative writing workshops