Authors: Isabelle Cote, Miriam Doyle, Tiffany Lau, Calista Loten and Reid Paxton

The Ribbon

Studio: ARCS4107 – Studio 7

Professor: Sheryl Boyle

Year: Winter 2021

Project Description

The Ribbon explores the potential for a heavy material to express lightness through the manipulation of its form. The shape reflects the Aboriginal notion of Treading Lightly, from the novel “Treading Lightly: The Hidden Wisdom of the World’s Oldest People” by Karl-Erik Sveiby and Tex Skuthorpe. Situated along the Rideau Rover in Ottawa’s downtown Strathcona park, the bench delicately touches the ground as to not impede on the earth. the undulating structure of The Ribbon creates an inclusive social space through internal circular seating while also providing outward-facing spaces for reflection and solitude. In the ergonomic design of the flowing arches, different seating positions create opportunities for interaction, rest, and shelter. Wellness is understood as the conscious practice of exercising one’s full potential and well-being in a means most suitable to them. The Ribbon strives to achieve this concept of wellness through its physical intuitive form, which creates a deeper connection to its surrounding context encouraging individuality, inclusivity, and community.