An installation at Darden Towe Park in Charlottesville was designed to allow individuals to express thoughts, memories and emotions to loved ones they’ve lost.
Hospice of the Piedmont worked with the Albemarle County Parks and Recreation Department on the Telephone of the Wind project.
Inspired by a concept originating in Japan, the Telephone of the Wind is a disconnected telephone where individuals may speak freely imagining their words carried away by the wind.
Located along the Free Bridge Lane promenade, the phone allows individuals to express their thoughts, memories and emotions to loved ones they’ve lost.
“This project aligns with our commitment to meet people wherever they are in their journey of grief,” said Nancy Littlefield, president and CEO of Hospice of the Piedmont. “The Telephone of the Wind offers a quiet, personal sanctuary for anyone navigating loss or seeking a moment for reflection.”
Placing the phone at the park allowed the installation to be accessible to everyone in the community at no cost.
“The beauty of the Telephone of the Wind is its openness,” said Jordan Phillips, HOP’s grief and healing manager.
“There is no right or wrong way to use the phone. Some will find comfort in sharing specific messages, while others may simply wish to hold the receiver in silence.”
The original wind phone installations was created in 2010 by Itaru Sasaki in Otsuchi, Japan, as a way to cope with the loss of his cousin. After the 2011 tsunami, it became a place of contemplation for thousands mourning loved ones.
Since then, similar installations have appeared worldwide.
For more information, visit hopva.org/wind.
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Crystal Graham
