Designing Dialogue: URA Award and PNCA

Abstract:

“My community art in practice research project investigated how graphic design and radical cartography promotes community involvement and a better understanding of how neighborhoods change over time. I worked with Southwest Baltimore's Poppleton Now Community Association and President Sonia Eaddy to improve resident communication and outreach initiatives. As a student researcher, I worked collaboratively with residents using public art and humanities methods of shared authority and community asset mapping to revamp the association's website to improve accessibility while effectively communicating messaging around neighborhood resources and future plans. As part of the research project, I produced a mural in the community, a walking tour brochure linked to a virtual ArcGIS project, and participated in a community celebration to create a deeper understanding of the needs and goals of the residents.The research emphasizes how essential it is to include design knowledge in community projects to develop dialogue and engagement for community empowerment through design.”