Mapping a Morphology of Enjoyment

Abstract

What can a map, designed as a critical-visual synthesis through interviews/conversations with the community, tell us about the vitality of a city? The ongoing research seeks to explore the role of a set of spatial-objects, linked to culture and creativity, in shaping a morphology of enjoyment in the urban vitality of the city of Porto. These spatial-objects are argued to have a dual position combating/promoting gentrification and touristification. Developed as inside research, it starts from a 10-year curatorial and critical experience in a corner store-gallery, SCAR-ID, in Porto's art district to design an everyday itinerary. The primary objective involves a proactive and critical reflection that contributes to the city planning debate, serving as a practical roadmap for decision-makers, commercial stakeholders, and most importantly, active participants in the urban fuition dynamics. Additionally, a desired and planned secondary aim is to return specific knowledge to its origin – the participating, self-mapped community.

Keywords: enjoyment, culture, everyday