Sufferings of War and Service, Australian War Memorial, February 2024
For”Every Drop Shed in Anguish”, a new sculpture recognising and commemorating the suffering caused by war and military service, was dedicated at a public ceremony on 22 February 2024.
The Australian War Memorial has worked with veterans and their families and advocates to commission this work of art, which represents those affected by operations and during training; in war and on peacetime service.
Created by artist Alex Seton, For Every Drop Shed in Anguish will provide a place at the Memorial for those who have experienced and witnessed the ongoing trauma that can result from service, and for Memorial visitors to reflect on this experience.
“Every droplet has a unique shape, defined by its delicate surface tension, as if about to burst. Their rounded liquid forms suggest blood, sweat or tears — for every drop ever shed in anguish. Most importantly, when touched these forms reveal themselves to have an inner strength and resilience that provides hope and promise of healing.” – Alex Seton, artist
“It is hoped the sculpture will provide a point of connection to all who have suffered as a consequence of service, whether their own, or someone close to them. ….remarkable sculpture will recognise that the blood, sweat and tears shed in anguish, whether in training, deployment or operations was not in vain”
Matt Anderson, Director of the Australian War Memorial
Historically, this suffering has not been acknowledged. Attention is rightly given to those who died during war. However, those who survived and were left with mental suffering from wounds and injuries sustained in service, or exposure to intense trauma, dangerous or life-threatening conditions, often felt forgotten.
This commission follows discussions with current and former members of the Australian Defence Force, and the family members of those who have served, about how best to recognise those who have suffered as a result of their service.
Australian artist Alex Seton was unanimously selected by veterans and their loved ones to create this work of art. For Every Drop Shed in Anguish, a field of sculpted Australian pearl marble droplets, will installed in the Sculpture Garden in 2023.
“I like that this piece has no heroes. It is a space for everyone to be acknowledged or educated. Whether a veteran, family member, partner or teacher, you can grieve, remember and educate our Australian community on the ultimate sacrifice of war.”
Connie Boglis, partner of Afghanistan veteran, Jesse Bird, who died by suicide
“Every droplet has a unique shape, defined by its delicate surface tension, as if about to burst. Their rounded liquid forms suggest blood, sweat or tears — for every drop ever shed in anguish. Most importantly, when touched these forms reveal themselves to have an inner strength and resilience that provides hope and promise of healing.”
Alex Seton
“I sincerely believe that Alex Seton’s work will enhance our ability to continue the conversation we have begun within the walls of the Memorial – this story must be transferrable to the national discourse – a truth telling of how war does come home and how accumulative service does have consequences. Alex’s vision, while speaking to this truth, opens the horizon to hope and new promise. The Australian Veteran Community and most significantly – their families need to know and feel this hope and new promise”.
Karen Bird, mother of Jesse Bird
