01-12-2023
FIELDWORK REPORT
Urban Culture and Public Space
Gigi Emanuels
Word count: 541
2788761
, Research and method
The fieldwork aims to investigate the central research question how public
spaces such as Kunsthal KAdE influence cultural awareness and community
engagement. To answer this the research will take into consideration how
Kunsthal KAdE shapes the cultural identity of Amersfoort as a public space. It
will also explore the ways in which Kunsthal KAdE facilitates interactions among
the public, and how it encourages engagement with contemporary art in
communal areas. The focus will mainly be on understanding how these factors
contribute to the cultural awareness and participation of the local community.
To conduct this examination, spatial analysis techniques will be employed,
involving three observational visits on different days and times to ensure
accuracy. Specifically, visits will be scheduled during favorable weather
conditions and high-traffic periods, such as weekends. Various data collection
methods, including photography, map annotations, recordings, and sketches,
have been carried out to enhance the comprehensive exploration of the subject
matter.
Considering that Kunsthal KAdE was established in 2009 and, therefore, is
relatively new, this could pose limitations in terms of resources and analytical
complexity. Despite the challenge of navigating the substantial scale and
dynamic nature of the subject, the decision to narrow down the research
question has proven to be an effective solution, establishing it as the guiding
foundation for all observations.
Preliminary findings
Kunsthal KAdE is an exhibition space located at Eemplein 77, 3812 EA
Amersfoort, in the heart of the city. 1It is situated just outside the city walls of
Amersfoort. Kunsthal KAdE is a vibrant public space that fosters artistic
expression and cultural engagement. Kunsthal KAdE is part of four important
cultural institutions in Amersfoort alongside, Scholen in de Kunst, Bibliotheca
Eemland and Archive Eemland. These cultural institutions coexist inside the
Eemhuis, and access is generally open to the public. The Eemhuis is a unique and
inspiring complex designed by Neutelings Riedijk Architects from Rotterdam.2
1 Figure 1.
2 Photos B.
2