A temporary art installation designed as a poignant memorial & tribute to the NHS for their work during Covid has attracted an array of media interest and visitors to Harrogate, the town’s BID (Business Improvement District) has said.
Luke Jerram’s In Memoriam – made up of more than 120 flags created from hospital bed sheets depicting a medical symbol – played host to brass ensembles, family events, and as an arts installation to animate the West Park Stray in Harrogate.
It achieved significant press and TV coverage alongside a host of beautiful imagery from the air and ground that enticed visitors from across the region and beyond.
In Memoriam is the first in a series of installations and events that arts organisation, Harrogate International Festivals, will be delivering across the town over the coming months.
Harrogate BID manager Matthew Chapman said: “In Memoriam was a particularly powerful art installation, and one that helped bring plenty of people into the town. Being in place over two weekends certainly helped, as did it being staged over the half-term holiday.
“As an organisation whose aim is to boost the town centre economy by driving footfall, we were delighted to support Harrogate International Festivals in bringing In Memoriam to Harrogate/
Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive Harrogate International Festivals, said: “Thanks to Harrogate BID and our other partners, we were able to bring In Memoriam to Harrogate, which was a coup for us and for the town as this was its Yorkshire debut.
“This was our first outdoor art installation of the year, and it was an absolute pleasure being able to once again do what we are best known for – namely promoting the arts to a diverse audience by delivering eye-catching and stimulating installations, events and festivals.”