Artsci Students Explore Tactical Urbanism in Hamilton

On 1 April 2022, students in the Arts & Science Program braved the cold weather for a walk in downtown Hamilton on the topic of tactical urbanism. Students began in the Kirkendall neighbourhood and explored several intersection makeovers, pop-up parks, and parking metre parties as they walked towards Beasley Skate Park. At each of the nine stops throughout the walk, students were invited to open envelopes with quotes or further information about tactical urbanism projects. Conversations ranged from a discussion about the future of roadways and cars in the city to a reflection on the connections between pedestrianization, gentrification, and displacement. Students also wondered how art and design might coexist with projects to improve safety and inclusion in the city.

The walk was hosted by level IV Arts & Science student Julia Menezes, who conducted research into tactical urbanism in Hamilton as part of her Arts & Science honours thesis. Julia framed the walk as a blend between a traditional walking tour, inquiry-style conversation, and game of eye-spy.

Level IV student Hina Rani, who participated in the walk, reflected on the importance of adaptability during the walk. “Early in the walk, Julia told us that just because we were studying the city didn’t mean we weren’t part of it. This approach led to some wonderful tangents (conversational and in our route). We stopped often to address the questions of curious onlookers, to lead the group astray to share a thought about a certain landmark, and on one occasion, to have a conversation with a TV news crew that happened to be in the street. I think it was a helpful reminder that there is no such thing as being a neutral participant. The city is a dynamic, changing thing that responds to our every move, and we should embrace this fact in the way we study it.”

You can learn more about thesis projects that Arts & Science students have pursued here.