05.
"Hold On"
NYCxDesign How Do You Feel New York
NYCxDesign How Do You Feel New York
Year
2024
Exhibition
NYCxDesign
Collaboration
Anna Zhou, Chiziterem Maduka, Khadeine Ali, Oluwalani Adeoye
"Hold On" is an immersive installation that confronts the silent epidemic of urban loneliness through the metaphor of the New York City subway system. The iconic grab rail, an object that provides reassuring stability amid the tumult of each ride, serves as the centerpiece. This universal yet intimately shared surface represents the necessary human bonds that we must grasp onto to persevere through experiences of isolation in the city.
The installation invites participants to walk within a fabric maze that mirrors the veil of loneliness separating us from meaningful connections. As participants reach the center of the exhibition, the hidden becomes revealed—the grab rail becomes an interactive lighting sculpture, its illumination intensifying with each person's touch—a powerful visualization of how our individual experiences are interwoven and amplified through collective engagement.
We explored multiple approaches to the interactive lighting element that forms the centerpiece of our installation. Two primary options were developed:
The installation was carefully planned with detailed technical drawings to ensure proper construction and functionality of all components.
The narrative journey of our installation follows a carefully crafted emotional arc that takes visitors from isolation to connection.
Loneliness is a quiet yet lingering feeling that gradually consumes you. In a bustling city, amidst the constant presence of people, it's easy for some individuals to overlook the depth of their loneliness. The emotional journey within this space would likely entail the stark realization that has silently enveloped our daily lives.
As people navigate through the installation, reaching its focal point becomes a moment of revelation—a recognition that genuine human connection is the true longing. This notion circles back to the theme, 'Hold On'. Beyond just a symbol of hope, 'Hold On' as in a moment to pause, to introspect, and to acknowledge our human vulnerabilities.
Fascinatingly, as this realization sinks in, the visitors eventually find themselves back where they began, once again to their loneself. Yet, this time marks a renewed perspective on the significance of human connection amidst the solitary path of life.
When we arrived on-site, we had to adjust our design to fit the significantly reduced dimensions. Working within these limitations, we quickly modified our display and lighting concept. Throughout the process, we also reached out to the New York MTA to collaborate and integrate their subway poles into our installation.
With its blend of innovative use of materials and dynamic lighting, our installation promises to engage and enchant audiences, offering a unique and memorable experience wherever it is showcased.
See how visitors interact with the Hold On installation and experience the transformative journey.
Watch VideoThis project was a collaborative effort between talented designers who brought diverse perspectives and skills to create this immersive installation.
Concept Development
Spatial Design
Material Research
Technical Implementation
Visual Communication
