First, I wanted to say that this was one of the more interesting and enjoyable articles we had to read. Being simple and to the point I could easily understand it and retain the information provided. As for the content, I remember watching a documentary just a few months ago on the Vietnam War memorial and how it was chosen. I was mostly amazed by how young Maya Lin was, the architect of the memorial. Since she was still a student I was amazed at what an accomplishment it must have been for her to be the winner of the contest and the designer of such a great memorial not only in its size, but also the meaning and value it beholds.
The whole point for a memorial I think is to make the viewer feel overwhelmed and possibly bring as much sensation as the people most closely related to it probably felt or still feel. It has to be breathtaking which is what I felt the Maya Lin had accomplished perfected when designing the Vietnam War memorial. The memorial of Oklahoma City bombing designed by Hans and Torrey Butzer does not really bring as much emotion for me. I would not say it is something breathtaking though a creative idea. I found it most unique that a survivor tree is included as a symbol for the survivors of the bombing. It seems to contain a lot more value and meaning than the chairs do for me. I also found the recording of the meeting that was in process during the bombing and way it is used as piece of memory as well.
I am including a picture of the Vietnam War memorial as I find it a very impressive piece and think it expresses the greatness of the event.
I find each memorial to be very emotional in their own ways. When I look at a memorial, however, I don't pay so much attention to its physical attributes and artiness. I think more of the event as a whole and how traumatic it must have been. Maybe since the Oklahoma City bombing isn't discussed as much as the Vietnam War it doesn't come off as emotional as the former. I think society tends to overlook some of these events and we never really consider their impact.
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