Atlanta Residents & LGBTQ+
Designed to inspire the community, this public seating installation embodies the strength and courage of the LGBTQ+ Midtown neighborhood. Several slightly varying pieces represent individuality, while the organization and arrangement of many resembles solidarity and unity in the community.
In 1971, Atlanta saw its first organized LGBTQ+ march, led by the Georgia Gay Liberation Front, with approximately 100 participants making their way from Peachtree Street to Piedmont Park. Today, Atlanta is celebrated as one of the most welcoming cities in the United States for the LGBTQ+ community, recognized for its commitment to equality and inclusion.
In response to the recent surge of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislation in the U.S., this project serves as a visible statement of inclusion, reinforcing that the LGBTQ+ community is loved, welcomed, and encouraged to embrace their true selves despite political challenges.
Timeline
14 Weeks
Research Synthesis
Solo
Concept Development
Solo
Course
Furniture Identity
The latest iteration embodies the coming out experience of LGBTQ+ individuals expressed through a timeline form. The seat platform represents childhood, where growth and development are structured and rigid. During the transition into adulthood, there is a self-identity exploratory period, where an individual’s true-self starts to emerge but is protected from parts of society through a duality. This dual state begins to break down due to tiring oppressive forces of society, and through a period of “coming out,” the true self is accepted and outwardly expressed.
Through the use of polished stainless steel and colored acrylic sheets, the materials either physically or metaphorically reflect the present individual. The concepts continue to explore singularity and individuality within a unified community.
The collection of multiple seats with differing folded geometry highlights the uniqueness of every individual's internal struggles and/or societal adversity. Each stainless steel seat is bent, cut, and welded by hand for a personal touch.
