“Two Blocks for Self Sacrifice” is how it’s known. Two bronze boxes, just like that, standing in the middle of nowhere. It’s not a particularly imposing sculpture. You might even walk right past it, as many might. But don’t let its simplicity fool you. There’s a powerful story hiding behind those two blocks.
Imagine the year is 1994. The world is at a crossroads. Many things have changed since the previous generation, and the world was changing even faster. The Scottish artist, William Edmonds, wanted to capture the spirit of this time, the uncertainty that had come with it. He wanted to explore the idea that the individual has agency and can make their own choices even when things are difficult.
The two blocks, you see before you, are a symbol of self-sacrifice and the choices we make in life. One is a solid rectangle, the other features a square hole, creating a poignant symbol of a choice. One block represents the old way, the path that has been chosen. The other represents the new way, the one that needs to be forged, a route of change, sacrifice, and commitment. You see the blocks, sitting here, representing a point of inflexion for humanity.
Standing here in front of this artwork, on the campus of Heriot-Watt University, it’s impossible to ignore the weight of history that this sculpture carries. You can almost hear the whispers of generations past, the echoes of choices made. Choices that have shaped the world we live in today.
The next time you’re in Edinburgh, take a moment to stop and admire the simplicity and power of “Two Blocks for Self Sacrifice”. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the choices we make and the legacy we leave behind.