This freestanding structure (11.5’x10.5’x10.5’) is intended for both external viewing and internal contemplation. Viewers approaching the sculpture from the outside see an 8-foot wall of deep blue fabric in an ombré gradient cascading onto the floor of the gallery. The vibrant blues pay homage to the Androscoggin River, which connects the communities of Lewiston and Auburn, visualizing the weight of the ever-shifting grief following the tragedy.

Above the fabric component is a 3.5-foot conical form comprised of 92 mylar panels, which emanate light. This chorus of imagery, created by regional youth and adults, feature symbols of hope and emotional support, tributes to the victims, and iconography celebrating the state of Maine. 

Upon entering the sculpture, the viewer sees a ceiling depicting a tempestuous nighttime sky. Floating throughout the sky are small, golden circles that function as tributary stars. These paintings and drawings are filled with heartfelt iconography, each one created by a community member who was deeply impacted by the shooting. The central image depicts a hand signing “I love you” in American Sign Language. Radiating from the hand, are the names of the 18 people killed in the shooting. The date, October 25th, 2023, encircles the hand. The names and date, painted in lustrous gold, shimmer and refract light from different vantage points.

Eighteen deep purple-colored walls rise to meet the turbulent sky. On each wall is a series of hand-crocheted forget me not flowers. There are 859 flowers total, representing the aggregate years of the lives lost. Each wall is dedicated to one victim and is covered with the number of hand-crocheted forget-me-not flowers that corresponds to their age, ranging in total from 14 to 76. The uniqueness of each handcrafted flower celebrates the individuality of every person, honoring the beautiful moments of their lives.

Photos by Jen McDermott

Located at 168 Lisbon Street in Lewiston, the LA Arts Gallery presents six exhibitions throughout the year that reflect and honor the Twin Cities community. Exhibiting artists generally have ties to LA or to Maine. 

With each show, LA Arts aims to bring individuals and groups together to strengthen our community through shared experiences and deeper cultural understanding.

If you’re interested in volunteering at the Gallery or want to learn more about the space and upcoming exhibitions, please send us a message using the form below.