Today marks the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on 9/11. I can barely remember what I ate for lunch yesterday, but I can still remember every moment of that fateful day ten years ago. It's amazing how time flies. Being so far away from home, marking this anniversary here in Italy feels different. I really found myself noticing the lack of media coverage as well as missing the general feeling of patriotism and rememberance I think we as Americans feel every year on this date. Coincidentally, Roland and I had agreed to drop by an art exhibit this afternoon. The exhibit was held by our landlord, who is an artist from Germany. The work we have seen of hers is quite eccentric, and we had no idea of the theme or what to expect of the exhibit, but wanted to stop by to show support and see her latest creations. The exhibit, we knew, would be what is called an installation - a large piece of art made from different materials in the spirit of a sculpture of sorts. When we first arrived, we were not sure what to make of the installation. This is what we saw:
We spoke to Suzanne, the artist, shortly after arriving, and as it turns out, her installation was in memoriam of the attack on the twin towers. Once she explained her vision on the piece, it made much more sense. She explained that the black tower on the left represented the charred remains of a tower, an acknowledgement of the event and all that had been lost. The golden tower on the right was a symbol of hope and re-building for the future. It was an interesting creation to see in person...the photo really does not do it justice. It was a unique piece of art, and one that was special to see on this anniversary. I am glad to have had to opportunity to commemorate the day in some small way.
Suzanne also had a set of three other pieces which were also created to honor 9/11. These were abstract glass dioramas, created on a smaller scale than the installation.
On this day and all days, may we never forget those we lost and all of the brave heroes who stepped forward for their country and their fellow Americans.
It really was a day of memorials and rememberances. 9/11 was everywhere - on the morning news and all the game days had special memorials. As you drive into downtown Chicago from the south you will see a very simple sign on the side of an old warehouse that says "We Will Never Forget - September 11, 2011." Truer words were never written. Love and Miss You Amy
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