In an age of ever-expanding virtual experience however, it’s
never been more crucial to be intentional about cultivating vibrant public
spaces. Thus, considering how to heighten
engagement I have spent time seeking out projects that draw on interaction
as their basis.
Next American City, a non-profit organization most widely
known for its online coverage of urban issues, recognises the irreplaceable
power of the local gathering, The Storefront for Urban Innovation, as they call
it, engages local residents in Philadelphia’s Brewery town neighbourhood
through city-themed art exhibits and events. By re-invigorating the
conversation in an unconventional space, the Storefront encourages people to
cross-geographical and demographic barriers.Image opposite of a student organised panel at The Storefront for Urban Innovation regarding urban cycling. Source : Munson's City
Similarly, artist Candy Chang has launched a public art
project inviting passersby to chalk their own ending to the sentence; "before
I die I want to…" on a disused building that has been transformed into a
giant chalkboard. Elaborating she stated that "the messages you see in
public space right now are mostly advertisements. If aliens landed today they'd
think all we care about are sexy beers and fruity shampoos. I think our public
spaces can better reflect what's important to us as residents and as human
beings". Image Source: Web Urbanist
Both these project I feel reflect meaningful ways in which
public space can be used to share information and create a physical interaction
with the built environment. They do however suggest more widespread movements
within the urban realm, and not so much tangible intervention. Thus to
supplement discussion the following are some of many practical applications I
have come across in looking at solutions that could enable these ideas for
interaction across various context.
Image Sources: Inhabitat / PSFK
Image Sources: Inhabitat / PSFK
No comments:
Post a Comment