Julian Howley - Creative Placemaking and Collaboration

I selected this artist for a project wherein conceptually the “work” was the participation with the work. We designed an exhibition experience that both showcased the art as well as encouraged viewers to create their own to contribute.

Objective

• Curate an exhibition for an emerging artist

• Create an interactive and collaborative experience

• Utilize the space as a crucial part of the storytelling

• Stay true to the artist’s conceptual ideation

Problem Statement

How might we design an experience where users are able to navigate between being a viewer, participant, and creator?

Process

• Meet with Artist and Stakeholders

• Conduct artist interview and studio visit

• Analyze data and develop strategy

• Select works

• Design creative experience

• Build participatory elements

• Monitor patron feedback

• Iterate

Results

This exhibitions was a proof of concept for the artist. He entitled this exhibition “Building Better Mobs” as a reference to the viewer as instigator and creator. We were able teach numerous community members a new artistic method by encouraging them to try.