A space for all

Public spaces are at the core of urban life and community. They are where we gather, interact and create shared experiences; where creativity fuels culture and movements; where dialogue shapes the vibrant pulse of our cities. 

The significance of public spaces as centres of cultural expression is timeless. From the intricate carvings and paintings of ancient Egyptian temples that communicated the essence of daily life, to the bustling marketplaces of medieval Europe adorned with statues and mosaics reflecting religious and communal values, to the Native American totem poles that convey identity and history. Public spaces have always been a canvas for cultural expression. 

Today, public spaces are quintessential to the identity of cities and their use varies across the globe, evolving into dynamic platforms where art, technology, politics, media and economic activity converge. These spaces reflect the diversity of our cities and remain at the heart of cultural shifts and innovation. 

In this session, attendees will hear participants engage in dialogue about what elements make for a vibrant, inclusive and inviting public space. There will be discussion about what sort of public art and activities can serve to foster community in urban spaces. Attendees will be encouraged to think about whose voices get heard and whose left out from public spaces and how to make these spaces places of inclusion.   

This Special Session will bring together a diverse array of voices to explore how public spaces enable us, both as individuals and communities, to discover and express meaning in fresh and impactful ways. Expect an engaging experience infused with art, culture, placemaking and the mind-blowing intersections that make public spaces the beating heart of inclusive communities. 

Session highlights

• Participants will engage in live art sessions, guided by the facilitators, where they will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge art and digital tools.  
• Various panellists will facilitate interactive discussions, showcasing the best and most meaningful approaches to interact and intervene with public space. Attendees will be part of an immersive experience that calls for the use of their senses in a way that makes them reflect on the subject matter of the session.  

Guiding questions

• What elements make a public urban space memorable and a driver of the city’s identity? Which of these elements are a product of urban design, the social use of space, city history or other factors?  
• How can we ensure that public urban spaces are inclusive? What are successful examples of public space interventions that managed to remain places of inclusivity?  
• Does public art get used and appreciated as its makers intended? How do cities appropriate public art and what examples are there of this collective appropriation? 

Key messages

• Art in public space has the power to challenge the status quo and ignite, drive and catalyse positive societal change.
• Engaging, activating and intervening in public space with communities at the forefront, can render societies more inclusive and cohesive.
• A sense of place in public space can only be created collaboratively and with all stakeholders invited to the table.