In the weeks following the September 11 attacks, artist Alexander Zheleznyak, together with sculptor Edvard Sargsyan, created a monumental twelve-foot memorial candle in New York City’s Union Square.

What began as a temporary sculpture quickly became a gathering place for thousands of New Yorkers. Flowers, candles, photographs, handwritten notes, and messages of hope accumulated around the monument, transforming it into one of the city’s most powerful spontaneous memorials.

The project was created not only to honor the victims of September 11, but also to offer a place of reflection, compassion, and collective healing during one of the most difficult moments in New York’s history.

The memorial later became part of exhibitions and public recognition, including acknowledgment by New York State officials and participation in the 9/11 Memorial Exhibition, preserving the work as both a historical document and an artistic act of remembrance.

9/11 Memorial Exhibition, September 2002

Announcement for the group exhibition featuring works and memorial projects dedicated to September 11, including Alexander Zheleznyak’s participation.