Laura Woodward

How do we hold these things together?

Walking into the site of this installation, it became very clear that this has nothing to do with next year’s Mardi Gras celebration.

Welcomed by a well-manicured field surrounded by tall trees and housing hundreds of gravestones. Passing through the cemetery, I couldn’t help but notice a few headstones that were well over 100 years old, some headstones in a state of decay. Cemeteries are for the living, to mourn, to visit their deceased loved ones. But who visits after 100 years when the deceased haven’t had a direct bond with the next generation? Their headstone on display, only for strangers passing by.

Now, I’m a tradesman, so let’s talk practically for a minute. The idea of water cremation is intriguing, but poses the question, how does it disintegrate a body? What are the mechanics involved to allow this?

Assuming water cremation is possible however, it could be noted that it would be much more environmentally friendly compared to traditional cremation, or burial – given the absurd amount of gas needed for cremation and the finite area of land left available in the cemetery.

Thinking about the installation, I couldn’t help but think about death nurturing life, with these vessels on display, running water down onto the grass. Also, thinking about how long the process lasts begs the question, will it be a part of the funeral service, or a temporary display for loved ones to visit to mourn.