Tuesday, 30 August 2011

Walk Four


Aug 3, 2011

I started this walk at the corner of Portage Ave. and Main Street, in the Plaza that surrounds the TD Building.  I had planned for this walk to cover some of the areas that I had missed during my first walk, and to continue the walk to Isabel St.  This area was interesting due to its subtle transition. The walk began in an area of compact, high concentration of old masonry buildings of the exchange district, to an area with large parking lots and fewer buildings with a noticeable decline in craftsmanship, to an area with small residential homes. The majority of the homes were in fairly good condition and well kept.

I found that this area was a type of In Between space, as it has multiple usages and environmental qualities throughout, transitioning from dense commercial areas to a quiet residential neighbourhood.  I found that the majority of the In Between spaces within the residential areas was privately owned.  This created a dilemma, for me, as I am focusing on public spaces that I may use in my practicum to transform the urban condition.  Therefore, I am debating whether it is necessary to canvas the remaining residential area that extends to Logan Ave. 
 
Walking Path

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These types of alleys are typical within the Exchange District and are very similar to a number of images from the first and second walks. 
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I have always been intrigued by the contrast between old masonry buildings and contemporary architecture. It creates a fascinating environment, providing a narrative for the evolution of the area. 
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At first glance, this small house covered in vegetation appeared to be abandoned, due to the state of the front yard. However, when I was there, an older man come out of the house and was attempting to put a For Sale sign on the fence.  It reminded me of the movie Up when the old man was finally ready to give up his house after refusing to sell while new developments were constructed all around him. 
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This is small structure or building t looks to be clad with old election signs. It looks as if it is being used as a playhouse but may have been constructed to make a statement.  
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When making images of abandoned, or In Between spaces I tried to refrain from looking at residential yards, as it is a private space and I am trying to find public In Between spaces.  However, I found this empty doorway with crumbling steps, a compelling example to the condition of some of the homes in the area.  
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This parking lot appears to have been designed with the intention to create a more pleasing space. Unfortunately, it is overgrown with weeds and appears to be under-utilized.
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The image of this alley, which is bordered by a commercial building and a small home, represents the transition and overall quality and character of this area.
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Monday, 29 August 2011

Walk Three



July 28, 2011

This walk began at Rupert Ave and Main St. I realized early that it was a wise decision to split this area from the area in my previous walk, because it possessed different qualities. There are fewer buildings, more parking, and abandoned lots. The In Between spaces were more subtle than the defined canyons and tunnels of the area in Walk 2.  Pioneer plant species are taking over many of the spaces within this area, creating a feeling of overall abandonment.  This area feels as though it is the back alley of the city.  This feeling of neglect was contrasted at the end of the walk, through Stephen Juba Park. The new developments here are very ‘clean’ and sterile when compared with the surrounding environment. The extension of the park between the Railroad Bridge and Provencher Bridge feels less manicured and underutilized.
 
Path walked
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This is an interesting assortment of objects.  Perhaps, this can be seen as a form of claiming one’s space, like graffiti tagging.
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The city’s solution to jay-walking.
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There are a lot of desire lines in this area, which may indicate that users, or residents, of these areas are utilizing these spaces in different ways then was originally intended. 
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This image is a prime example of the contrast between new and old within this area. Pristine and sterile versus abandoned and wild.
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Pioneer species are taking over the sidewalk. This reminds me of dirt roads where the condition is reversed, the tracks of vehicles being the only area worn down and without vegetation. 
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The vegetation surrounding this trampled path, which leads into an abandoned lot, creates a sense of enclosure and threshold, providing a sense of curiosity and adventure. 
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I think the reserved parking sign attached to two dead trees ­­is interesting especially since it doesn’t look like any cars that park there. 
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The BMW in front of the Paddlewheel Riverboats office seems slightly out of place in comparison to its surroundings.
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What’s left of the Alexander docks.
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At least the port-a-potty looks to be well utilized. 
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The walking path with wood railings creates a feeling of being trapped, as though jay-walking in the park is not permitted. 
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