Elena Breer

Elena Breer

The end result of my map sketch, while being nowhere close to completely accurate, was actually considerably more on target than I had anticipated. While working on this project, I realized how many spaces on campus I pass through regularly without ever taking a moment to consider my environment. This was a disappointing realization for me to make, as I like to think that I am in tune with my surroundings, and I often make a point to appreciate the world around me. However, to me, this experience points out a difference between appreciating scenic beauty, such as the trees or green ivy against a brick wall, and truly considering your environment, including the dynamics of how the space is used and how it was designed. Throughout the process of this sketch assignment, I became a bit more aware of my surroundings, especially when passing through unfamiliar areas and areas of high traffic. I was much more conscious of the way certain streets fit together, of the walkways people tended to prefer—sometimes astray from the intended path—and the areas where people tended to congregate. It encouraged me to take routes I less often travel by and was an excellent exercise in mindfulness.