Ela Madej and Reed Finlay collaborated to create the Temple of the Heart temporary desert installation.

The Temple of the Heart was a space for remembrance, celebration, and healing.

"They came with offerings, which were added to the walls of the temple in order to grieve, honour and release emotions," said Madej and Finlay.

"Through flowers, Eastern European lacing and warm, feminine energy, she was designed to induce the feelings of maternal love and acceptance."

For the 10 days it stood, 73,000 visitors made pilgrimages from across the globe.

"Completing her cycle of life, she was burned into memory and released to the sky," added Madej and Finlay.

This project has been longlisted in the installation design category of Dezeen Awards 2024.

Studio: Ela Madej and Reed Finlay
Project: Temple of the Heart by Ela Madej and Reed Finlay
Credits: Ela Madej, Reed Finlay, Kasia Bojanowska, Steve Brummond, Elizabeth Radke, Tina Shen, Drew Moxon, Ajesh Shah, Elyse Lefebvre, TJ Lee, Greg Watson, Sparklepony and the Temple Build Crew