Vandalistic Fun(ction)
Computer renderings, 3D Prints, Plywood, Zip-tie, Acrylic. (Variable Dimensions)
Vandalistic behaviors of the urban dwellers have profoundly shaped the city landscape we are familiar with. Some may be as explicit as the expressive graffiti on concrete walls while others like flower pots hanging on the U-Channel sign posts are less obtrusive and seen rather ingenious. The project is largely inspired by these observed improvisations and builds upon the opportunity presented by the commonly found U-Channel Sign Posts. Essentially a modular and expandable mounting system, the design advocates an alternative mean for people to participate in the transformation of the public space that is decentralized, user-friendly, and somewhat anarchist. To showcase the potentials for the envisioned concept, three case studies respectively address the functions via vertical surface, small feature, and complex structure. Against the background of an ongoing pandemic that halts production and logistics of mass manufactured goods, the project is open source and publicly shared for interested participants to partake through technologies like 3D printing.
If you want to further participate in this open-source project, you may download original files including 3D models via Thingiverse page.
© Zichen Yuan, 2020
U-Channel sign posts are found every block in New York City. Despite its common function as a post supporting the parking rule signs, the majority of the length of the posts is unoccupied and often canvas for unorthodox usage - bike lock fixture, stickie posts, etc.