Weinstein JCC hosting architect of World Trade Center Memorial January 30th

Michael Arad will give a talk on the inspiration behind his memorial design, entitled “Reflecting Absence.”

January 19, 2016; 9:31 AM • by Trevor Dickerson

From the Weinstein JCC:

Michael Arad, the architect of the World Trade Center Memorial, is the keynote speaker for The 2016 Adolf-Adams JCC Forum on Sat., Jan. 30, 2016 at 7:30 p.m., at the Carole and Marcus Weinstein Jewish Community Center (Weinstein JCC), 5403 Monument Ave. Arad’s “Reflecting Absence” architectural design was selected from more than 5,000 competitive entries as the template for the Memorial’s construction in New York City. During the Forum, Arad will discuss the significance and symbolism of the design, as well as his inspiration. The Forum, which is a highlight of the Weinstein JCC’s Patron of the Arts series, is open to the public. Admission is $50, and tickets may be purchased at weinsteinjcc.orgor (804) 285-6500. The event is sponsored by McGuireWoods LLP.

“Reflecting Absence” features a pair of pools set 30 feet deep in the “footprints” of the downed towers; cascading waterfalls surrounded by the names of the dead; areas of bedrock level where the public can mourn and family members of the victims can grieve in private; a space for 9/11 relics; and a “living park” at ground level meant to symbolize life and rebirth.

Arad, who was born in London, spent his high-school years in Mexico City, where his father was the Israeli ambassador. Arad attended Dartmouth, served in the Israeli military and eventually made his home in New York.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

January 19, 2016 9:31 AM · in Near West End News and West End 0