In the aftermath of Australia’s worst terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, a dedicated team of volunteers has embarked on a painstaking mission to preserve the sea of flowers left as tributes to the 15 victims. Led by Jewish artist Nina Sanadze, this extraordinary effort aims to transform the ephemeral floral displays into a lasting memorial at the Sydney Jewish Museum.
The process, taking place in a 400-square-metre warehouse in Sydney, has been both physically and emotionally demanding. Faced with over 3 tonnes of flowers, the volunteers have had to contend with sweltering temperatures, humidity, and the overwhelming scent that initially forced them to wear masks. Yet, their determination to ensure the victims are not forgotten has driven them forward.
“It’s been exhausting, it’s been hard, but it has been worth it,” says senior curator Shannon Biederman, who has had to get creative with solutions like fans, dehumidifiers, and construction fences to aid the drying and preservation of the flowers.
Meticulous care is taken to identify and catalogue each species, from zigzag wattles to bougainvilleas and Singapore orchids. Every petal, every fallen leaf, is meticulously labeled, color-coded, and carefully boxed, with the aim of incorporating every element into the final artwork.
“Every little petal, people will go look for the right place. It’s just a testimony to the care that people have,” Sanadze says, reflecting on the community’s outpouring of support and the volunteers who drive for hours or dedicate entire days to the project.
The artwork, which will be unveiled when the Sydney Jewish Museum reopens in early 2027, is a testament to the resilience and unity of the Australian people. Biederman expresses the hope that the preserved flowers will serve as “an expression of unity among all Australians.”
As the team works tirelessly to ensure the victims are not forgotten, they also look to the future, with plans to replant the seeds left over from the drying process. Sanadze believes that a garden “to give us hope for the future” is the perfect complement to this poignant memorial.
In the face of tragedy, this community-driven effort to transform the ephemeral into a lasting tribute is a powerful reminder of the healing power of art and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
