My idea of a public space is that people can pretty much do whatever, without any issues with private security. Even though the east side of campus includes dorms, educational facilities, and two amazing dining facilities, students tend to find the outside more relaxing than ever. The public space isn’t controlled or nothing really stops others from enjoying the fresh air. Sometimes the space may be used for organised events such as cookouts, and orientation purposes. Even with these events in place, people are always welcome to participate. Festival, located on the east side of campus, has been one of the most populated places on JMU soil. The building itself, attracts people to go inside and still be able to enjoy the magnificent view of the Sun through the enlarged windows. Just outside the building, people can either express themselves through live music or relax by lying on fresh green grass. Sometimes I would see students playing kickball, throwing baseball, or just laying on the grass tanning. Besides the open space outside of festival, inside during overcast days, students may eat inside and watch television in the lobby. The view portrays the significance of the people’s choice to do whatever they please with respect to others. East Campus has been a symbolic part of James Madison University since the early part of last decade. The community is made up of mostly students rather than people who live outside of campus area. Without the sweet addition of the campus, I believe there wouldn’t be any other place to go eat and relax with the wonderful scenery in play.
This blog post is interesting because the author verifies the importance of public space by presenting solid evidence for the use of this particular space. I personally believe the East side of campus has been a great addition to JMU. In this picture, I can see someone stretched on the steps there just enjoying the sun. Some more people can be seen sprawling around. As the photographer mentioned, "people can do pretty much do whatever." However from our discussion of public spaces, we know that people can't really do whatever. There are some restrictions to how much people can do with the public spaces provided for them.
ReplyDeleteJoey Omaid's comment for Dr.H