The original image speaks by itself. Two men, who I imagine as associated
with a local government or as members of an urban planning company are
discussing future urbanization plans for that given community in front of a
map. Abandoned buildings and blighted infrastructures have always been part of
the scenario where I grew up, in downtown Madrid. Personally, I see those urban
spaces, invisibles for some members of the community, as great opportunities
for creative discussions with members of the community about our loss of
connection with natural life. Also, that discussions can generate concrete
purposes for creating social public spaces that address the needs of a particular community. This
dialogue can start with the following questions: How can infertile and desolated
landscapes become a more amiable place that restores an ecological equilibrium?
What are the connections between the fabric of our urban life and natural
landscapes?
My transformation of the original picture wants to make visible the lack
of participation of community members in urbanization planning. Therefore, I
explored the disconnection between the real necessities and struggles of
residents with the future of the public spaces that are supposed to acknowledge
the needs of communities. I reflected with my collage the underestimated
potential on members of the community in making concrete and positive contributions
to their surroundings. This imaginary community has transformed the blighted
buildings into a vertical garden and has considered the need of the community
to be able to see the sky while traveling from place to place.
By Violeta
Original Image Citation: no photographer / artist given. National Geographic Magazine. Volume 158, Nº4, October 1980, pg. 497.
Original Image Citation: no photographer / artist given. National Geographic Magazine. Volume 158, Nº4, October 1980, pg. 497.
