Bavington reflects on memorial commission

It’s not the kind of commission Tim Bavington ever contemplated — or wanted.

But when organizers of a “Vegas Cares” benefit concert approached the artist about creating a public memorial for victims and first responders following the Oct. 1 shooting on the Strip, Bavington agreed to do exactly that.

“I don’t know how I could say no,” he comments. “It’s an honor” and “an incredible thing to be asked to do.”

Although “you don’t want to have to contemplate even doing it in the first place,” Bavington says, “art does have the power to bring healing and catharsis.”

The Nov. 5 “Vegas Cares” benefit concert at The Venetian raised more than $100,000 for the project. Performers included Jewel, whose song “Mercy” will serve as Bavington’s inspiration for the memorial, which the artist expects to be “something different” than his “Pipe Dream” sculpture in Symphony Park.

As for those who question raising money for a public memorial in the first place, “there are memorials that mark every tragedy,” Bavington points out. (He’s donating his time; the funds raised will go toward materials for the sculpture.)

“I think the cause is absolutely worthy. A memorial would be an important thing,” he says. Besides, “I like to stay out of the politics. I’m an artist. If I get asked to make some art … I don’t get into why.”