Ana Lorena, regarding the memorial plaques in public benches

“The person paid for it and dedicated it to someone. Look, for example, at this bench. They are in so many places, usually by the water, wherever there is water, there’s a dedication to a spouse, a parent, or whoever it may be. So, I would love to track these places and these benches, see what they say. They are amazing, and sit on that bench. They usually place them in locations significant to the person who passed away and to whom it is dedicated. For example, there’s a beautiful one on a rock at the end of Jericho Beach, on the rock. I think they scattered the ashes, too. Sometimes, they do that. Maybe they didn’t pay for that one because the rock was already there, but usually, they are benches. So amazing! I mean, sitting in that place and marvelling at what this person saw, why they chose that spot, and keeping track of the texts on the benches, because they are very inspiring. And well, seeing the years. On this plaque here, I assume it’s a spouse based on the years. It seems like someone older (1953-2017). ‘For Sai, and the love you gave—a place for us.

Sometimes the plaques are dedicated to children, and that’s when it’s even more touching. So, I find it extremely interesting to go on a tour of the benches dedicated to someone. I imagine that the city keeps a record of all these benches.”

Ana Lorena is from Guayaquil. She has lived in Canada since 2014.