JL-North Park

            The visit to North Park proved to be quite opposite to the previous adventure at Horton Plaza.  In my opinion, the section of North Park we explored optimizes what the main street of a neighborhood should encompass.  For one thing there seems to be a tremendous pride in the town.  The neighborhoods insignia is plastered everyway, you know that you are in North Park everywhere you go.  

            Two distinct styles became apparent to me, the tile work on many of the facades, although not exactly the same, the language reads throughout most of the downtown area.  The murals and art around the town are incredibly noticeable too.  All the street art creates an aura in the town that screams craftsmanship to me.  I felt like I was in a creative environment while walking around. 

            I think what this style does for the neighborhood is create a specific type of community.  It becomes a place that thrives on culture, style, and creativity, and draws like minds into the area.  You get the sense that information displayed or given in the area isn’t specifically planned or sanctioned, but the residents are ok with that.  After some time spent, patterns began to emerge to me as well.  I noticed several murals done by the same artist, some more subtle than others, but a consistent mixing of patterns by many artists and craftsmen. 

            Speaking to our discussion of the readings, and our approach to the design of our display, I think as a group we started at a very good place.  The idea of weighted fabric that is easy to move and create different spaces is fantastic.  If we can create an adaptable, unique space for gathering and displaying information, that shows off the language we develop, it should be a successful project.