AIDS Memorial

I was asked to provide a photo montage that would play behind a solo performance of Bryan Adams 'Heaven'. To help provide context, to place the viewer 'in the scene', my good friend Tonya, confidant and occasional muse, shared the experience with me.

Late one October morning, a bright, cool day with the sun low in the sky, not usually a photographers ideal lighting. As I wondered how this would work out, I allowed the sense and feeling of this memorial to still and calm my soul. The answer came to me - high contrast black and white.

Vancouver AIDS memorial study - October 2009, Sunset Beach

Mark, John

Controversy over the location of the Memorial, a design competition, fundraising and construction challenges see us to April, 2006, when the final panels of the Memorial were installed at Sunset Beach on English Bay.

Dedication panel

This memorial speaks of those who have gone before, those who have died from HIV/AIDS. This disease is far from over.

Vancouver AIDS Memorial.

The sheer number of names creates a reflective mood. Yet this is just a drop in the bucket.

In Memorium

Larry, Robin

Last weekend I spent a few hours with a close friend photographing the AIDS Memorial, quietly reflecting and allowing the mood of this place to sink in.

Thinkin about our younger years

Seven million people walk by the site each year.

Silliker, Ward, Martin

'If the Memorial inspires even one person to make choices that protect them from contracting HIV/AIDS, all of the effort and controversy will have been worthwhile.'

Our love will light the way

It is hoped that the memorial is going to have families talking about AIDS.

Mario, John, Brian

Even before the shoot was over, I knew a strong black and white treatment would carry the feeling I had on that bright, yet cold late morning.

There was only you and me

Pride In Memorium

A part of me

This doesn't even come close to recognizing the wide spectrum of people living with HIV today.

AIDS Memorial

Intra-panel

Many more names, some friends, are not here due to 'space' limitations.

Donohue et al

AIDS Memorial | john bishop images | fine art photography | vancouver, bc

AIDS Memorial

I was asked to provide a photo montage that would play behind a solo performance of Bryan Adams 'Heaven'. To help provide context, to place the viewer 'in the scene', my good friend Tonya, confidant and occasional muse, shared the experience with me.