Counting down to a future without HIV. That’s what the Living by Numbers sculpture in Amsterdam does. This isn’t just any monument. It’s the first AIDS monument in Europe.
Created by the artist Jean-Michel Othoniel in 2016. It stands as a powerful symbol. A giant abacus. Made of hand-blown red glass beads in a steel frame. The Living by Numbers sculpture sits on the De Ruyterkade. It’s a tribute to those lost to AIDS. It’s also a hopeful statement. A wish for a future free of new HIV infections by 2030.
Initially the beads showed the year 2030. Each bead represents a step towards that goal. The design is clever. The beads are read from right to left like a number. The number changes yearly. It’s a visual countdown. A tangible reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV.
The red glass beads aren’t random. They are meant to represent the diverse community affected by AIDS. No two beads are alike. The colour is vibrant. Reflecting the light off the IJ River. It creates a beautiful and moving spectacle.
Sadly the COVID-19 pandemic hampered progress toward the 2030 goal. Testing and prevention programs were impacted. The Living by Numbers sculpture serves as a reminder. A reminder of the ongoing battle. A battle against stigma. A battle for access to healthcare. Only by addressing these broader issues can we truly prevent new HIV infections.
The location itself is significant. The IJ River has a dark history. Sailors exchanged more than just goods. They spread diseases like syphilis and the plague. The river serves as a metaphor. A powerful reminder of the international nature of AIDS. The area around the monument also has a history. It used to be a meeting place for gay men. The Living by Numbers sculpture stands as a testament to hope resilience and remembrance. It’s a unique work of art. A poignant symbol of a community fighting for a healthier future. A future without AIDS.