With an increased emphasis on the need to reconnect with nature, to escape the city and restore ourselves in greenery, what happens if we attempt to flip this? What if instead we escape to the city? What if we try to reconnect with the urban and restore ourselves amongst the grey?
Join our newest member Dan Gutteridge on September 18th for a walk through the hyper-urban streets of Birmingham. Rather than simply rushing through the concrete to get from A to B, we'll take time to see and think about these busy pedestrian streets differently; investigating the emotional influence they have on all who pass through and inhabit them.
As we drift we will use 'emoji mapping' to unfold how we see and feel in various sections and consider how these spaces might bring new experiences to us. Being away from nature, can we connect to the urban in ways that generate similar emotions to those we feel amongst the green?
The walk will be a playful attempt to unpack how and why we feel the way we do in the city. Using an empty map of the streets and some emoji stickers we'll have a go at mapping our emotions (positive and negative) using the stickers as starting points for discussions. Whether you love or hate walking in the city, you're sure to come away with a fresh perspective.
Meet in Victoria Square at the bottom of the stairs by the fountain at 11am on Sunday 18th September. We'll then set off down New Street for a 90 minute walk, finishing off back where we started. The terrain will be pavement with only slight inclines and no steps. No need to book, just turn up. The walk will go ahead whatever the weather so check the forecast and dress appropriately.
Those who wish to bring their own cameras/notepads/pens are encouraged to do so but this is not a requirement as all materials needed for the mapping will be provided. After the walk there will be the option of retiring to a pub or cafe to chat further over beverages.
Dan is currently undertaking research on walking in hyper-urban environments for his Masters dissertation. The emoji mapping of New Street will help contribute to this. For more information on this ahead of the walk email Dan on s2104925@uni.cumbria.ac.uk