Talma Mill Studios were proud to be finalist in The Barbados at 50 Monument competition.
The objectives of the design proposal was:
- To create a contemplative and reflective space of national importance to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Barbados as an independent nation.
- To harmonise with the historic nature and iconic landscape of the Garrison Savannah which happens also to fall with in the UNESCO inscribed heritage site of Bridgetown and its Garrison.
- To create a populous memorial that celebrates the contribution of all Barbadians and also to make no political statement.
We proposed that the Barbados At Fifty Monument be submerged below the existing ground level to minimize the aesthetic disruption to the landscape.
Visitors descends via a ramp into the ceremonial space.
We chose to celebrate the participation of all Barbadians in Independence by creating a curved wall finished in Brass that has inscribed on it a complete list of all 19,035 Barbadian family names. The foundation of this wall was be cast-concrete sculptures of human feet to symbolize the hard work and dedication of the Barbadian people, both past and present, to their country.
This feature terminates at a ceremonial courtyard where a 40’0” flagpole and the Barbados flag flies 24 hours a day.
Surrounding the space seating is carved into the sloped land.
