A massive quilt, created to honor those who lost their lives to AIDS in Britain, is scheduled for public display later this year at London’s Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall. Developed in the 1980s during the peak of the epidemic, the UK Aids Memorial Quilt was inspired by the US Aids Quilt, launched by American activist Cleve Jones. The quilt has made several appearances, including the European Aids conference at London’s ExCeL centre in 2021, and its upcoming exhibit at Tate Modern marks its debut in a major UK cultural institution. The quilt consists of panels each measuring 6ft by 3ft, a size that reflects the average grave plot size, with many of the panels commemorating individuals who were denied traditional funerals due to stigma. Pieces honor celebrities and anonymous persons alike, drawing attention to the widespread hatred and prejudice those with AIDS faced. With concerns over USD funding cuts potentially impacting the fight against AIDS worldwide, the quilt’s exhibition serves as a reminder of the disease’s ongoing impact and the importance of continued advocacy and support.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/apr/08/uk-aids-memorial-quilt-display-tate-modern-turbine-hall