a clear shape of a figure on a bench
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Figures From The Past

By Bernie Bell. We went into Stromness, where we noticed Perspex figures placed on benches and wondered why? We both had an idea that they might be to do with remembrance – maybe  remembering people we know who have passed in the last year. That got us thinking of those who we would, at one…

theorkneynews
1–2 minutes
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By Bernie Bell.

We went into Stromness, where we noticed Perspex figures placed on benches

several clear shapes of figures on a bench
A clear shape on a bench

and wondered why?

We both had an idea that they might be to do with remembrance – maybe  remembering people we know who have passed in the last year.

That got us thinking of those who we would, at one time, have been likely to meet when walking down the street in Stromness who have passed from this life and who we won’t meet again.

There are quite a few.

This led to thoughts of the last episode of ’Still Game’, where the figures we‘ve grown to be familiar with fade, one by one.

The End of ‘Still Game’

The figures on the benches are clear Perspex, but with something about them that gives an air of ……. being present.

And this is coming up to Remembrance Sunday when we not only remember the people in the military but also the civilians who were living their lives,  minding their business, and who were snuffed out by war.

I posted the pictures on my Facebook and maybe someone will let me know who and what‘s behind these figures – there might be a completely different reason/interpretation, but I like the feel of the way they turned our minds.

This happened on All Soul’s Day.

3 responses to “Figures From The Past”

  1. berniebell1955 Avatar
    berniebell1955

    This might be the answer to the mystery…..

    “MÓTI

    Please join us next month for Stromness Glimmers 2026: A Festival of Light!

    In the dark evenings of 12–14 November 2026, we will transform the streets of Stromness into a free, spectacular gallery of illuminated artworks for all to enjoy and explore, featuring work by Móti members and other Orkney-based artists.

    For three nights, a walking trail of video projections and sculptural light art installations will reimagine the streets of Stromness, bringing art to the whole community.

    More information on artworks and festival locations will be coming soon via our website at moticollective.com/glimmers.

    Stromness Glimmers is organised by Wendy Barker and Beccy May, and supported by Orkney Islands Council Culture Fund and Sutherland’s Pharmacy.”

    By the way – as usual – the ad. at the end of my article is now’t to do wi’ me!

    Reply
  2. berniebell1955 Avatar
    berniebell1955

    PS…..I’ve since had a discussion with someone about why the figures are there and my observation was…… “I don’t know what the intention is of the folk who placed them, but am inclined towards them meaning whatever they mean to the people who see them.

    In fact, this morning I was saying to Mike that it’s not only people who have passed from this life that we don’t see along the street anymore, it’s also folk who have left Orkney.

    Re. the Festival of Light idea – we did think at the time, that they’d look different after dark, with the street lights on.

    Just…something of interest…promoting thoughts……there in Stromness.”

    Reply
  3. Paul Avatar
    Paul

    I’d love to explore that kind of experience further. It would work wherever everyone lives because the thoughts are in one’s mind.

    Reply

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