The exhibition features photos by artist Francesc Torres of debris and other material cleared from the site of the World Trade Center and stored at Hangar 17 at John F Kennedy International Airport.
Torres, says: “Having watched the graphic destruction from my apartment, only two blocks from the Twin Towers, when I entered Hangar 17 at JFK International Airport for the first time in 2006, I was immediately hit by the deep sense that the objects I was confronted with, from large shards of rusted and burnt steel to bikes left forever by their owners, were the symbolic substitutes of the victims.
“Their overwhelming presence stood for all the people that lost their lives that late summer day a decade ago”.
Diane Lees, Director–General of the Imperial War Museum, says: “The 9/11 terrorist attacks were a turning point in understanding the power and force of contemporary terrorist activity.
“They changed British and US perceptions of their role in the world and influenced the subsequent foreign policy of both countries, creating an environment of heightened security. US and British military action in Afghanistan began in this climate and continues today.
“This display will enable our visitors to reflect on the 9/11 attacks and their human cost, as well as the wider impact of modern conflict on people’s lives.”
Memory Remains by Francesc Torres opens 26 August 2011 and runs until 26 February 2012. Entry is free.
