Public Art Project- Lauren, Ali, and Kaylin

Lauren Bacon, Ali Harre, Kaylin Beckwith

PCA 261

Skinner & Rao

Public Art Project

Haphazard Hallway

The first day brainstorming for our public art proposal, the three of us agreed on four main criteria: the project needs to be huge, related to Butler, interactive, and playful. We also loved the idea of making it tantalizing, similar to the piece we saw in the atrium of the IMA. Additionally, we wanted to create something that goes against basic rules of social norms, instilling a “stick in to The Man” mantra.

After creating and a list of a variety of ideas, we elected to make the idea of converting the catwalks that connect Jordan Hall, Gallahue Hall, and the pharmacy building from their current materials to glass. On each end of the catwalk there will be baskets that hold a wide variety of colored dry erase markers. Students, teachers, staff, and anyone else who walks through these catwalks has the opportunity to draw directly on the walls. This goes against what we are taught as children—no writing on the walls—adding an interactive aspect to the project. Moreover, these can be used for student art and also classroom interaction. Classes will have the choice to use the catwalks as white boards rather than being in a conventional classroom setting. This class interaction helps relate the project to Butler. Another way this project will be related to Butler is that any student organization can publicize their events on the glass walls. Also, the project is very playful—not only because anyone can partake in the artwork, but also because of its juxtaposed position on campus. It connects old, antique-looking buildings with a modern, not standard idea.

After creating our idea and developing the concept, we began brainstorming a name. Because the nature of the project is to be random and does not require any organization, we chose “Haphazard Hallway.” This suggests a crazy, random passageway, and also piques interest. Moreover, there will be no rules related to the project, so anyone can erase or write over someone else’s artwork.

Overall, we are very excited about Haphazard Hallway. We love the idea of going against social norms and interrupting a traditional aesthetic with a modern twist. Additionally, Haphazard Hallway incorporates our criteria of being playful, huge, related to Butler and interactive. Most importantly, we love the ability of involvement by any individual, bringing the opportunity to express oneself directly to the individual.