Tree of Lives - In Remembrance of the Persons Disappeared by force as a Consequence of the War in Kosovo, 1998–2000
Over two decades have passed since the war in Kosovo. More than 1,600 people remain missing. Their absence continues to deeply affect families, communities, and society as a whole. Honoring their memory and creating a space for collective remembrance is essential.
Tree of Lives is a public memorial dedicated to those still missing as a result of the war. Created by Swiss-Kosovar director Dea Gjinovci and French artist Armand de Benoist de Gentissart, the project is now in the implementation phase. The memorial takes the form of a tree trunk, symbolizing the enduring connection between the missing and their families. The absence of branches represents irreversible loss and the potential of lives tragically cut short.
This project honors individuals whose absence still weighs heavily on their loved ones. Inside the trunk, the names of the missing are etched onto wooden panels. These names, some of which, handwritten by family members, create a tangible link between the memorial and those missing.
The participation phase, where families inscribed the names of their missing loved ones, has concluded. These names, each carrying the weight of history, loss, and remembrance, have been etched.
The final construction phases are underway. Details of the public unveiling will be announced soon.
