How many people look at space and think "this is definitely open space right here"?
Too many people see the cement and the buildings and forget that open space can be found almost anywhere, you just need to look for it. In Auckland, there is actually a lot of potential for this change in attitude. Take a look at Britomart Square - Downtown.
How many people looked at that space and envisioned a concert of epic proportions to be held there? Laneway in 2010 was the beginning - I believe - to this change in attitude. If you were not there, then words will not do it justice, but the music, the setting, and the environment was life changing. Just because it has a cement carpet does not mean it is not open space.
Indie music is an expression of the creative soul, it was born in the back alley streets and garages of the most famous cities, where else would one express this as a culture? Downtown of course!
So far i have talked about music, but what about art? Follow this link to check out the video of Jun Arita and his art for Red Bull Stereopticon.
http://sideroom.com/magazine/2010/08/red-bull-stereopticon-auckland-video/
Jun Arita's art was displayed on an overhead projector for all the public to see in the very same square. This highlights how spaces can be used for different avenues of creativity. It would not have been the same without the downtown-esc backdrop.
Let us move to Aotea Square. This is another prime example of an open space with a cement carpet. Although Aotea will take the cake for being a larger permanent open space. This is another opportunity where the creative mind can be displayed. Since its redevelopment, Aotea square has hosted Laneway 2011, The Arts and Crafts Market, Cultural Festivals, Art Festivals and more!..
I wish to make it clear that open space can be found in many different forms, before I did planning, I did not see it this way. I figured "if it doesn't have trees or grass - it ain't public space".. Oh how wrong I was. From only these two examples you can see what I'm talking about! My challenge for all my blog followers is to find a unique open space in and around Auckland City, snap a few shots of it, and post it here. It's time to get these places out there for all to enjoy!
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