The Agora of Glasgow

“At the end of the day, the protests change the narration of the city,” – Tali Hatuka 

Derived from the Greek term Agora is defined as a place of assembly, a designated area in the city to accommodate the social and political order of the city. This project seeks to have a dialogue and a counterpoint to respect and acknowledge the City Chambers. Socially engaged art — often defined as collaborative, community-driven work that engages with social issues — has emerged as a powerful approach for in confronting current political and social challenges is incorporated into the programme as a method of engaging with the public. 

The programme is a contemporary interpretation of the agora functioning as a true point of convergence, bustling with people, a perfect meeting and conversation spot where the ideals of art and beauty are revived. The scheme is located under the existing square creating a ramped plaza for the public as a place of gather and rest. Here, visitors can also witness performances and large-scale artwork installations. The below ground, a more structured and organised space, catered to the community representatives focusing on a public forum space as a position to embrace and acknowledge the specific needs and agendas of the communities and hence to widen the public participation. The outcome of this programme is to engage with culture, seek a relationship with its audience, and to promote interaction and change.