A new memorial honors those who died due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the efforts of front-line workers. “Circles of Memory” is located in front of the Herrity Building at Fairfax County’s Government Center complex.
Fairfax County commissioned artists Miriam Gusevich and Salvatore Pirrone to create the memorial in 2022. County officials gathered at the site on Wednesday to officially unveil the project. The memorial cost approximately $265,000, WTOP reported.
The site features a circle of azure blue, aluminum curves that are supported by white concentrate benches. According to Pirrone, each of the curves were positioned to resemble a flowing river. The laser-cut flowering dogwood designs honor Virginia’s state tree and flower.

“We believe in the redemptive power of art and memory, their power to transform sorrow into soulfulness and to affirm life and love,” Gusevich said at the event. “Art cannot cure, but it can help us heal.”
Feature photo by Clare Gifford