Pruitt-Igoe Bee Sanctuary: Living Proposal
Transforming the abandoned housing site into an urban agriculture park, using beekeeping and art to engage students in education and critical thinking.
Initiator(s)
Juan William Chavez
Description
The interdisciplinary project Pruitt-Igoe Bee Sanctuary, aims to transform the urban forest where the Pruitt-Igoe housing once stood, in public space for urban agriculture – thereby addressing the theme of urban abandonment and also finding some creative strategies to solve it. Through summer workshops for Middle School students, art and agriculture are utilised as a means of engaging them in education, encouraging them to exercise critical thinking skills that contribute to overall academic success.
Goals
The Pruitt-Igoe Bee Sanctuary proposes to transform the Pruitt-Igoe site into a public space for community and education. Keeping students engaged in learning will keep them on a path to success including a better understanding of natural science applications, increased confidence through knowledge, greater awareness of healthy food choices, and educational success.
Beneficial outcomes
Middle School students participating in the Living Proposal workshops receive an introduction to new art forms and learn the benefits of an urban garden which include access to fresh produce and knowledge of basic food preparation and cooking skills.
Location
United States
Users
The artist, Middle School students residing in North Saint Louis, teaching artists and experts
Maintained by
Northside Workshop
Duration
2012 - ongoing
Category
Scientific
Pedagogical
Politics
Urban Development
Economy
Environment
Social
