pARC COMMENDATION FOR SITE ACTIVATION
pARC is an open-ended programmable extension to the conversations, events, teachings, and more that currently exist within the doors of the Ackland Art Museum in Chapel Hill, NC. The spatial installation serves as a visual landmark inviting people up off the street and into the museum. The design both mimics and contrasts the museum’s Georgian-style architecture through an interconnected system of arcs that frame out various open-ended social spaces. The space consists of two defined stages or seating areas and a multitude of other open-ended social opportunities. The work provides an opportunity for the user to put their identity onto the work, museum, and surrounding space. Through utilizing various play methodologies, the design begins to break down social barriers and democratize the public/private terrace of the museum. The work utilizes light both during the day and at night as a tool to evoke spontaneity and wonder through its shadow play component. pARC becomes a flexible communal space evoking endless ways to play, gather, perform, teach, converse, or even take a nap.
“It’s interactive in its nature. Its color scheme, shape of it, and location of it is all meant to interact with the public and make people feel more welcome and make the museum feel more accessible.”
