Students in Mona Williams’ sculpture class started the semester making human bones from clay as part of the “One Million Bones” initiative, a fundraising art installation designed to recognize the millions of victims killed or displaced by ongoing genocides in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Burma, and Somalia. The collaborative installation of one million “bones” will be displayed on the National Mall in the spring of 2013.
“I think it’s a great idea,” said Rob Marina ’16 (at left), who was making a rib. “It’s a really creative way to raise money. It definitely makes an impact because it’s so visual.”
Rob said he didn’t really think about genocide victims as he sculpted. “It’s hard to kind of grasp the concept of it,” he said.
Evelyn Rose Keeney-Ritchie ’16, created a jawbone and scapula. “I’m a biomed major so I’m thinking about it another way,” she said. “It’s an awesome way to observe and learn. I think it’s going to make a huge impact once there are tons of them.”
Nicolas Shelton ’14 made a human skull. “I think it’s neat they’re doing a mass grave for all those who are lost,” he said.
The students created bones out of clay to donate to the event. Non-participating individuals can sponsor bones for $5 each. Proceeds will be donated to direct service and advocacy organizations, Enough!, Women for Women International, and the Genocide Intervention Network, which work to protect and aid displaced victims of genocide. For more information visit the One Million Bones website. www.onemillionbones.org
