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HEALTH BY ART: THE REMEDIAL ROLE OF ARTISTIC INSTALLATIONS IN PUBLIC SPACE
Abstract
Designing public spaces has become one of the most relevant issues in contemporary cities thanks to their integrating and inclusionary character. Public spaces are playing a far more important role in promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging us to do different activities. Therefore, contemporary public spaces should enhance creativity, stimulate physical activity and influence mental health. The methodology used in the research includes literature survey, study visits and comparative analysis of some selected examples of contemporary art installations in public spaces from different European and American cities. The discussed case studies refer to different scales of urban space and diverse aspects of wellbeing and health in conjunction with art interventions. These are: Superkilen in Copenhagen and Porch Light Programme in Philadelphia as complex projects enhancing mental health and physical activity and contributing to community integration; Puckelball field in Malmö and a playground in Amsterdam in Potgieterstraat by Carve as triggers of creativity and physical activity; Flying Grass Carpet and the Rosa’s Passage in Lodz as acupuncture art projects changing the character of place and creating new bonds between neighbours and affecting the wellbeing of inhabitants. The case studies show that art used as a tool for enhancing people’s wellbeing and health is more effective when it is not limited only to the aesthetic role of art, but when it is interactive, inviting, and inclusive. The trend of designing multifunctional public spaces where art, architecture and urban design in a synergic way enhance the quality of life and public health can be observed. This leads to building healthy cities.
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