COLUMBUS, Ind. — Children on kick-scooters, dogs on leashes, toddlers in strollers and an estimated 300 people on foot all absorbed something of a meandering mile and a half of architectural insight amid Saturday morning dew — all as the Exhibit Columbus architectural exhibition unfolded in its first public tour throughout the downtown.
And while national and international designers of the event’s 13 outdoor installations all included some technical background and inspiration for their pieces to be on display through Nov. 26, they also did something that Exhibit Columbus organizers have advocated especially in recent years: They built humor and humanness into their brief presentations to create yet another connection with their local audience.
That was evident right from the tour’s opening at the first stop — “PIPE UP!” the screaming pink and other vibrantly colored installation next to Hotel Indigo on Brown Street. The water-oriented work is from University Design Research Fellows from The Ohio State University Austin E. Knowlton School of Architecture and Iowa State University School of Design.
When designer Shelby Doyle took the mic, she expressed one hope that fit perfectly with a smash movie still in the pink just a few short blocks away at YES Cinemas.
“We hope you’ll take your Barbie selfies here,” cracked Doyle as the crowd laughed.
The heavy family aspect of the tour crowd also was symbolic. Because Exhibit Columbus organizers have worked tirelessly since the biennial exhibition began in 2017 to position it in every way as family fun with activities aimed at everyone from preschoolers to parents.
And Saturday’s activity schedule for the opening of “Public By Design” was filled with free offerings such as music, games such as bocce, children’s storytime and more. But the public tour amid overcast skies and comfortable mid-70s temperatures kicked it all off. And the architects seemed to exult in a chance to speak directly with residents about their efforts focused since early in the year.
For the complete story and more photos, see Sunday’s Republic.
