ABSTRACT

In a rapidly growing world, the need for development and better use of our space is increasingly evident. With the consistent rise in population comes an escalation in the issues that societies face globally as well as the urgency and necessity of careful thought and purpose in design to combat these problems. Through researching the sustainable, community-building architectural works of Francis Kéré, Michael Murphy, Kunlé Adeyemi, Vo Truong Nghia, and Yasmeen Lari, I found evidence of how resolute, physical design can not only lead to stronger communities and improved quality of life, but also be a means of catalyzing positive change and combating global issues. In addition, I delved deeper into the works of artists seeking societal change, such as contemporary artists, Ai Weiwei, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, and Banksy, to develop an understanding of how public art can prompt us to be more conscious of the issues prevalent in our world. After learning of the transformative qualities of art and architecture and their potential to embed pluralistic values within society, I created works of my own, installations that prompt individuals to look within as well as witness design’s power to inspire us to think and reflect. The research conducted ultimately exhibits how art and architecture can and should be utilized purposefully to better quality of life and societies as a whole whether by influencing us to think more innovatively or enabling us to solve existing and future challenges.