thedrifter
05-24-09, 08:16 AM
The messages of war memorials
BY Byline here
Sunday, May. 24 2009
St. Louis Soldiers Memorial — 1936 — Dedicated to the soldiers of World War I,
this is a classic example of memorial as monument. It uses the architectural
vocabulary of classicism to express sacrifice. Grief has been processed, and
the meaning of the memorial is understood by all.
Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial), Arlington, Va. — 1954 — It
suggests the blood, sweat and tears of combat. The Marines depicted, based on a
photo by Joe Rosenthal, are real-action heroes. The sculpture does not welcome
sensory involvement — it is too distant to touch.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington — 1982 — A leading example of a memorial
dedicated to healing. Because it honors veterans of a war that the country did
not win, as well as by its distinctive form, it avoids the usual triumph of war
memorials. By inviting touch and personal involvement, it facilitates healing.
World War II Memorial, Washington — 2004 — With its colonnade and other
classical features, this is a throwback to traditional memorials. It makes no
apologies for commemorating a war the United States won.
Ellie
BY Byline here
Sunday, May. 24 2009
St. Louis Soldiers Memorial — 1936 — Dedicated to the soldiers of World War I,
this is a classic example of memorial as monument. It uses the architectural
vocabulary of classicism to express sacrifice. Grief has been processed, and
the meaning of the memorial is understood by all.
Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial), Arlington, Va. — 1954 — It
suggests the blood, sweat and tears of combat. The Marines depicted, based on a
photo by Joe Rosenthal, are real-action heroes. The sculpture does not welcome
sensory involvement — it is too distant to touch.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington — 1982 — A leading example of a memorial
dedicated to healing. Because it honors veterans of a war that the country did
not win, as well as by its distinctive form, it avoids the usual triumph of war
memorials. By inviting touch and personal involvement, it facilitates healing.
World War II Memorial, Washington — 2004 — With its colonnade and other
classical features, this is a throwback to traditional memorials. It makes no
apologies for commemorating a war the United States won.
Ellie