(03/31/2009)

Open group

Moderator:Rob Nero

Redefining crosswalk sounds

CrossingWalk is a project to redesign the audio signals for pedestrian crossings, provoking critical reflections on the various audio signals encountered, and why they are obeyed or disobeyed.

The purpose of this project, as critical design, is to make people aware of the in-between space of pausing and waiting to act, and of the audio signals that control their actions into and out of this space sub- or semi-consciously. The pause that someone takes at a crosswalk is an opportune moment to redefine a person’s expectations and provoke a new behavior.
By replacing the arbitrary signal of a crosswalk sound with a natural sound, that of rushing water, a roaring lion, or squealing brakes, it encourages people to think about what the sounds mean and why and how they respond to them.

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