designboom · Creativity & design

Community Voices Shape Queens Public Art Installation

Revolving Voices, a new public artwork at Astoria Houses in Queens, integrates community stories and poetry into an interactive, sculptural gathering space.

The installation, a collaboration between The Urban Conga and local poet Tamra Cosby, features four rotating octagonal structures. These forms are inspired by megaphones and are designed to amplify community voices.

Developed through engagement sessions with residents as part of a NYCHA and Public Housing Community Fund program, the artwork incorporates residents' memories, experiences, and imagery.

The perforated metal exteriors display community scenes, while interiors feature etched messages and poetry by Cosby and other residents. Each octagonal unit can be manually rotated, altering the installation's orientation and the views it frames.

This rotation allows the structures to face either the waterfront or inward towards Astoria Houses, creating dynamic relationships between the artwork, its surroundings, and the community.

Designed for both everyday use and community events, Revolving Voices functions as a space for sitting, climbing, performance, conversation, and reflection.

The project aims to transform a public waterfront space into a hub for gathering and storytelling, reflecting the history and lived experiences of the Astoria Houses community.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.