Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood and Creative Time partner to present Sophie Calle’s site-specific installation “Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery”. Visitors are invited to transcribe their most intimate secrets onto paper and lay them to rest in a grave designed by the artist. The installation will debut on April 29th & 30th from 12:00 – 5:00 PM, and Calle will be present to privately receive some visitors’ secrets.

During the debut weekend, visitors are encouraged to spend the day exploring the sculptures and monuments throughout Green-Wood, a tradition that dates back to the early 1800s. Free maps of the cemetery, specially made to accompany Calle’s installation, will be available. Also guided walking tours, with an emphasis on symbols and iconography, will be offered at no cost. Following the inaugural performance weekend, visitors can see Calle’s installation during regular cemetery hours and independently deposit secrets into the gravestone.

Calle has pledged to return periodically over the next 25 years to exhume and cremate the written confessions in a ceremonial bonfire service and moment of remembrance.

During the debut, for best access to the installation, visitors should come through Green-Wood’s main gates at 5th Avenue and 25th Street, where a welcome table will be staged by the gothic archway. We will be distributing maps and directing people to the site from there. This is a free event, open to the public, and no RSVP is required.