Gravestones and Memorials

The purpose of a gravestone is to commemorate and honour. It is unique to a single person and there is just a single one made. This is the reason why commercially-produced gravestones are often so unsatisfying. Their uniformity contradicts very purpose of the gravestone - which is to be uniquely made for a unique and well-loved person.

My clients and I make the stone together. It is a very collaborative process. In the first meeting, I like to hear stories about the person who died, see photos, and read what was said at the funeral. We then talk in general terms about the stone and look at my earlier work. Sometimes my clients have a clear idea of what they’d like and sometimes no idea at all. It doesn’t really matter. From this conversation I determine the three most important things about the stone; its spirit, style and intention. I act as an interpreter. I translate family stories into a design which reflects the person who has died and the feelings of the people left behind.

Naturally this first meeting can sometimes be difficult and very sad. Yet, it can also be a comfort. Its good to have a last opportunity to do something for the person. Its good to get to work and make something for them. Perhaps this is the other - and equally important - purpose of a gravestone.