During my time onsite at the Big City Life project in Rome, I had the pleasure of spending time with contemporary artist Brad Downey.
Brad is renowned for his unique work. His installations are characterized by spontaneous sculptures and clever urban interventions using found objects in unconventional ways. He is American born and based in Berlin.
FOUNTAIN, BRAD DOWNEY, 2013
Brad took a unique conceptual approach to the Big City Life project. He spoke with the residents living in the building and asked if they had any grievances or uncompleted repairs in their apartments. In response, Brad in turn created a winch on the balcony of one of the residents' apartments to lift up heavy bags. This installation piece was one of many he created to provide solutions to those problems. I loved his selfless focus and found his creativity inspiring!
Problem Solving As Mural, Big City Life Project, Brad Downey (2015)
"I hope my work could have the potential to inspire people to change something. This is my job, to show others that it is at least possible to change a city and participate in questioning objects".
- Downey from Building or Breaking, with Chiara Santina
Brad onsite with Stefano Antonelli during his installation on the Big City Life project. Both connecting with a resident who later sang us a song. A palpable sense of excitement and renewed sense of community was present. Amazing work being done here!o
The form of community engagement that Brad chose is such an inspiring example of neighborhood regeneration offering cultural and social development with a beautiful sensitivity to the immediate needs of that community.
Check out Brad's website to learn more about all of his compelling projects, including these two...
A BUILDING IS A BUILDING, BRAD DOWNEY, 2014
BEGINNING AND THE END, BRAD DOWNEY, 2010