THE LITTLE SOULS MEMORIAL: HISTORY AND DESIGN

Abstract

The Little Souls makeshift memorials are a regular part of Chile's landscape. These sanctuaries -homes built by families and devotees for souls not resting in peace- are ever present in roads, cliffs, curves, expressway ramps and in every place where people have been victims of sudden and violent death. With the passing of time these "abodes" have become objects and places of devotion filled with candies, flowers, letters and acknowledgements.

The "Thanks for favor granted", a project by Isabel Infante and Emilia Garcia-Huidobro, recognizes this cultural and popular heritage, and pays homage to Santiago's'little souls memorial". In it, 12 designers honor and explain the history and aesthetics of diverse 'little soul memorials' in Chile's capital.