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FARMINGTON — Up to $10,000 has been approved for a memorial created by artist Very Johnson to those who died and were injured in the September LEAP Inc. explosion.
At the request of the LEAP Explosion Fund committee, Johnson was asked to submit a proposal for the committee to consider. United Way of the Tri-Valley Area holds the money raised and administered by the LEAP Explosion Fund committee. Fire Capt. Michael Bell was killed in the explosion, and six other firefighters and LEAP employee Larry Lord were injured.
The proposed idea is an interactive Healing Bells Memorial Sculpture to be installed in Bjorn Park in Farmington, across from the explosion site. It would be made out of fire extinguishers that are repurposed to create a series of seven bells that visitors can ring/chime. Musically healing sounds that represent the wind and breath of those who came to help at a time of need. Vera also intends to engage schools and children to draw pictures that could be chosen to use on the storyboard that tells the history of the event. A brick path is envisioned as well.
“This idea came to me because of the memories of the sudden loss that I experienced with my own mother 10 years ago,” said Johnson. “I wanted a way to feel a connection to her after she had passed on. I was operating a pottery studio where I used to teach classes. With my own two children, we took some time together in the studio and made some small clay sculptures. We have them placed around our home where we can see them every day. They remind us of her. It’s more meaningful than photos or other objects because it was created with the intention to remember.
“No one will ever forget what happened. We can, however, collectively find a way to support the affected community and offer a place to go and turn grief into something beautiful, to help ease the pain of loss. Like a symbolic wailing wall — may we all say a prayer each time we hear the bells ring.”
Johnson envisions a collaboration with any and all interested local folks to help design, build and install components to make this project a reality. In the spirit of human connection it will tell the story and honor the legacy.
Johnson is seeking individuals to bhelp ring her project to fruition. These individuals would form a committee to further define the design of the project and take the next steps towards creating and installing it.
For information, call Johnson at 207-645-4464 (land line) or 418-0374 (cellphone, text or call), or email verajohnson@zoho.com.
Bids/quotes for services are being accepted as well. Contact Johnson for more information:
* Large older fire extinguishers for sale or donation-copper, brass or any older steel or aluminum- to clarify none of the new small ones;
* Fabrication and welding for the piece;
* Setting posts in concrete-includes digging 3-foot holes;
* Powder coat and durable finish;
* Transportation of sculpture pieces;
* Installation and finalization;
* Help setting brick patio after installation with engraved/dedication bricks for the patio;
* Placard/storyboard design and creation for visitors to read;
* Community conversation and input for dedication.
PHOTO: Bjorn Park in Farmington. (Town of Farmington photo)
