A common memorial gift, flowers symbolize the fragility and beauty of life. As a tribute to the memory of Debbie Ravich Vorhoff, the interactive flower installation celebrates her artistic spirit, curiosity, and creative presence along the Lafitte Greenway for generations to come.

“Iris of Memory” takes the flower, a traditional and impermanent memorial symbol, and reverses its aging process. In contrast to the temporary nature of a delicate flower, the installation is created out of durable metal. As Greenway visitors draw closer to the flower, the light within glows brighter, providing a visual indication of the power of memory to connect us to life, even when someone is no longer physically with us. This effect builds viewer curiosity and encourages engagement.

Functionally, “Iris of Memory” provides lighting along the Greenway path. The leaves of the flowers visually fold down to provide seating, and serve as a place to quietly reflect or engage with community. The installation also activates the space in front of the former Brake Tag Station and serves as a catalyst for the development of a community plaza.

The glowing bouquet embodies our urban greenspace and the need to protect our local and global environment. The flower is inspired by the Louisiana Iris, which is native to the coastal wetlands and planted nearby in the Greenway bioswales.

"Iris of Memory" was commissioned for the Lafitte Greenway by Friends of Lafitte Greenway, Arts New Orleans, and NORD with support from Elaine Ravich, the Greg Vorhoff family, and the City of New Orleans Percent for Art Program.