William Wolfe

Using strategic design thinking, this project aims to create a participatory art project. By attracting key actors with a vested interest, such as city officials, funders, businesses, and citizens, the collaborative work will spark a regeneration process that will lead to a change in perception of the city, and a stronger pride of place for its residents. From a socio-economic perspective, the city of Brownsville, Texas—my hometown—is a poverty-stricken border city. Overwhelmed by drug violence, and crippled by brain drain, it is clear that this is a city in need of regeneration. Public art isn't a top budgetary priority for the town, recently named poorest in America. This proposal aims to demonstrate that public art is critical to a city’s renewal. It is critical that the project be completely homegrown. The proposal therefore emphasizes local labor, local material, and local collaboration. Funding a project is one way to feel connected to the work. But participation in its design, construction, and installation creates a deeper sense of pride. Outlining the project’s monetary benefits can be difficult initially. But through careful examination, an increase in commerce, visitors, and small business could be attributed to these collaborative art works.