The Dispersal Project
Inspired by the movement of seeds around cities, the Dispersal Project is about the intentional and unintentional relationships between humans and non-humans. As we go about our lives, we are constant agents within different, often complex natural processes, whether we like it or not. This means that we must take care of the plants and creatures which not only shape our existence and inform our sense of belonging, but are vital to our mutual wellbeing.
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During a three-month residency in Kortrijk, the Dispersal Project proposes a series of experiments in the form of three cabinets designed for the public space. Set in a space where human communities, landscapes and other living things are in constant dialogue, the project looks at both hands-on ways in which communities can interact with the diverse ecologies around the city, as well as inspiring a sense of wonder.
#001
Seed Dispersal Toolkit
26–11–2021
︎ Practical
︎ Storytelling
︎ Drawing
In one scenario, the dispersal project supports a small but specific activity. The cabinet acts as a standalone companion to its surroundings. Its fictional narrative helps describe humans as agents within natural processes around them and understand their own role in their local environment.
The tools, which are more about the creative and unintentional interactions with nature, are about seed dispersal by plants – a process which can be difficult to see but still important to the urban ecology. Human participants enjoy the excitement of watching the seeds and lichens bloom over time, and the wild plants benefit from a new set of locations in the city.
The tools, which are more about the creative and unintentional interactions with nature, are about seed dispersal by plants – a process which can be difficult to see but still important to the urban ecology. Human participants enjoy the excitement of watching the seeds and lichens bloom over time, and the wild plants benefit from a new set of locations in the city.
#002
Nesting Cabinet
26–11–2021
︎ Crafts
︎ Habitat
︎ Wildlife
In another version of events, traditional crafts and low-tech approaches are combined with tools for creating new habitats for other creatures. Alongside a more practical narrative about weaving techniques is a guide to different needs of birds, hedgehogs or rabbits.
The cabinet provides specialist tools, as well as the materials needed to make a variety of objects. Over time, the cabinet becomes adorned with these constructions, found materials and other organic matter.
Birds visit the cabinets for extra twigs to construct their nests in spring, and local residents are presented with the opportunity to learn a new set of skills.
The cabinet provides specialist tools, as well as the materials needed to make a variety of objects. Over time, the cabinet becomes adorned with these constructions, found materials and other organic matter.
Birds visit the cabinets for extra twigs to construct their nests in spring, and local residents are presented with the opportunity to learn a new set of skills.
