Memorial Stones

Memorial Stones was commissioned by Youth With a Mission Singapore as a site-specific installation to commemorate Project Gateway, a new missionary training campus located in Geylang, an area of Singapore often associated with socioeconomic marginalisation.

The installation consists of a collection of twelve side tables designed for a community and staff space on the upper level. The work is inspired by the twelve tribes of Israel: each table’s colour corresponds to a gemstone associated with a tribe, referencing the stones set in the High Priest’s breastpiece. The tables are further differentiated by form; each has a distinct geometry, and together the twelve function as interlocking elements that resolve into a complete circle when assembled.

 

Each table is fabricated from powder-coated steel. The components are joined using structural adhesive tape, with no welding or mechanical fasteners, allowing the structure to rely entirely on surface bonding.

A miniature version of the tables, arranged as a complete circle, is mounted on the wall. This wall piece frames the commemorative text describing the work and simultaneously serves as a visual guide for assembling the full-scale tables into their circular configuration.

 

Memorial Forever

Inspired by the 12 tribes of Israel who carried the 12 stones from the Jordan (Joshua 4:1-8), these 12 tables remind us of the wondrous works of God in our midst. Each generation shall tell of His mighty acts to the next. We will always remember the faithfulness of God, and seek to be a people of obedience and faith.

Hear, obey and persevere. God spoke, we obeyed. God promised us a house when we become a home. We believed and learned to be a family. Trials and tests buffeted us, but we stood firm on His word. Gateway is a testament of His faithfulness. Let these tables be a memorial to Him forever.

In palettes that reflect each of the 12 tribe’s gemstones (Exodus 39:8-14), the tables form a circle, which reminds us that we are the family of God. As His sons and daughters, we bring our unique gifts and callings, and take our place at the Father’s table. The circle of tables is also a declaration of the peoples and nations that will gather at the wedding feast of the Lamb, when all will be one in Christ.

Blessing, glory and wisdom,
Thanksgiving, honour, power and might
Be to our God forever and ever. (Revelation 7:12)

In commemoration of the completion of Project Gateway