This hands-on workshop explores how public spaces can become powerful engines for symbolic repair and community healing. Drawing from the lived experiences of post-conflict Colombia, we will analyze three unique case studies where public spaces were transformed into sites of active memory. Crucially, we will unpack the methodologies used to ensure these places foster collective mourning and hope, rather than triggering re-traumatization or deeper pain.
Participants will work in collaborative teams, diving into deep-dive toolkits for each case. Through interactive, tactical exercises—using posters, post-its, and visual mapping—we will collaboratively deconstruct these methodologies. Together, we will isolate key placemaking factors and co-create practical frameworks to adapt these sensitive, resilience-driven strategies to the specific challenges of your own local communities.
