Accessible to the public, the piece of art pays tribute to all those affected by the pandemic — patients, family members, friends, health care workers and the community.

In 2021, an idea was surfaced by Emory University Hospital Midtown care team members, and supported by leadership, to create a public piece of artwork to display on the hospital campus. After reaching out to a few artists and receiving several sculpture proposals and designs, team members voted on the designs, and landed on one commissioned art piece as a COVID-19 remembrance.

Artists Jessica Bell and Scott Schubin created the 10-foot-tall by six-foot-wide steel sculpture, which rotates with a slight touch or breeze. Benches surround the “Memory Heart,” allowing visitors and care team members to sit and reflect while viewing the sculpture.in field]

Bridget Piggue, ThD, director of spiritual health at Emory University Hospital Midtown, offered this blessing to the care team members:

“As we look upon this ‘Memory Heart,’ we remember the many challenges of 2020 and beyond. We marvel at all we have endured and the ways we have risen. We renew our resolve to work for justice and equity, to strengthen our communities, to reach for the hope and restored health and safety — every patient, every time,” said Piggue.

As the ceremony came to a close, everyone in attendance was reminded to “Go in peace and remember.”