Re-Imagine How We Move Through Cities (Without That Blue Dot)

2014-12-03T18:33:00-05:00

A floating blue dot on a handheld device’s mapping app has become the default way we understand the complex flows of people through the city and the diverse ways we experience coming and going. Such direct representation is convenient, but removes the spontaneity of approaching the city as both a destination and departure point. This fall, Van Alen Institute’s week of programs re-imagines the way we navigate through the city, from tourist visits and daily commutes to forced migrations under intense economic pressures or the prospect of new opportunities.

Mirroring the multifaceted routes of individuals’ paths across cities, the programs scheduled for Dec. 8-14 investigate movement through myriad forms, from a series of short film screenings and a night of audacious comedy, to hacking the NYC subway with a new video game app and live debates on digital fixes for infrastructure. And like the pluralistic crowds that invigorate our quotidian trips, the programs bring together a diverse a...

Van Alen Institute’s upcoming “Elsewhere” initiative explores escapism in the urban experience

2013-10-17T21:31:00-04:00

The Van Alen Institute announced on Oct. 17 the upcoming launch of "Elsewhere", a multi-year initiative that will explore escapism in the contemporary urban environment. The community-centric initiative will consist of design competitions, various public programs, and research focusing on the multiplex aspects of escape — and how the findings from these investigations can create room for innovation and improvement in planning, design, and policy.

The kickoff for "Elsewhere" will officially begin on Nov. 12 through Nov. 17, with four days of public programs throughout New York City.

Registration is required for all kickoff events, as space will be limited. You can register here starting Oct. 22. Except for the Nov. 12 event, all events are free of charge.

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Re-Imagine How We Move Through Cities (Without That Blue Dot)

Van Alen Institute’s upcoming “Elsewhere” initiative explores escapism in the urban experience