A project to promote peace and expose the pain of violence

We stand together in the wake of violence. Nationally we have witnessed devastating terrorist acts in New York City and Washington, DC and losses in Oklahoma City in 1995. We also remember Littleton, Colorado, and the countless other acts of violence in our schools. In 1998 and 1999, artist Bradley McCallum worked with Madison high school students to collect stories told by Madison area residents regarding their own experiences with violence. "Path of Voices" is a public artwork that draws on these stories to deepen our understanding of the complexities of violence as it is witnessed in our own community, which has long been considered a safe haven.

This artwork creates a sacred space at four of Madison's public high schools: East, LaFollette, Memorial, and West. These spaces provide respect for the memories of the individuals interviewed by the students, while inviting students and other listeners to speak to friends, study, or simply take a moment of reflection.

This work consists of large granite quarry stones cut with the seat and backrest establishing the arc of a 19-foot circle. Accompanying the benches are two 8-foot tall granite pylons with built-in audio speakers through which the amplified oral histories and testimonials recorded by the students are provided. This audio is conversational in volume, just loud enough for students and other passersby to hear when standing next to the pylons. While sitting on the benches, listeners are aware of the voices, but not overwhelmed by them. The sculptural elements are gently lighted, serving as beacons that further define the listening space at night.

The artwork is not a memorial to a tragedy documented in the headlines nationally, but draws on individual experiences of violence to establish a proactive force for peace. The work provides a living space for students and the community to come together.

September 25th is the National Day of Remembrance of Murder Victims. A candlelight vigil is sponsored by the Parents of Murdered Children organization each year at one of the Paths of Voices sites. Please visit their website for times and locations of the candlelight vigil.