Spaces of Generosity: Activating Public Space through Community and Design

What does it mean to belong in a PUBLIC SPACE? How can we foster COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND PARTICIPATION THROUGH ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN? Hear the answers to these questions and more as KORAY DUMAN and SETHA LOW join us at THE CHURCH for a panel discussion on the role of PUBLIC SPACE IN SOCIETY.The panel was conceived of by Koray Duman, a NYC-based architect whose practice concerns public interactions with the built environment. In preparing for an extended stay in Sag Harbor as a resident at The Church, Duman began a dialogue with Setha Low, an expert on public spaces. Low is a Distinguished Professor of Environmental Psychology, Geography, Anthropology, and Women’s Studies, and Director of the Public Space Research Group at the Graduate Center, City University of New York. Together, they share decades of combined experience across the fields of cultural affairs, environmentalism, and public design. In their talk, our speakers will highlight how strategic design can amplify human interactions, while temporary activations cultivate generosity and belonging. They will also discuss the tools and resources that citizens can use to take over (politically), enjoy (personally), and participate (culturally) in public spaces. Following the event, a public dinner will be hosted in the garden of The Church. In the spirit of activating public space and bringing together community, it will be free and open to all.