Disparate Harmony

Team

Name: Yusuf Urlu

Nationality: Turkey

Institution: New York Institute of Technology 

– FINALIST of 2020 Monument Competition

The ‘Disparate Harmony’ has sprung from the predicaments of exclusion, inequality, and discrimination amongst the present diverse demographic compositions.

The project offers an actuality to acknowledge the various journeys that different groups or individuals experience. As visitors walk through the monument, forms and angles in the narrow tunnels vary symbolizing that every individual has a different level of difficulty in their journeys. The dimensions of the tunnels allow a one-person experience, a reminder of the isolation and difficulties of 2020.  Meanwhile, the large entrance and staircase on the opposite side welcoming them into one closed circular space to evoke the idea of a possible whole and togetherness, indicating that there is a way to live together in peace with some shared understanding of the world. The observation deck in the middle is for people to observe both sides; bring attention to the polarization that is invading the fabric of our society.

The surrounding elements: wooden walking path expresses continuity, lights draw attention to material, texture, and forms, the green spaces illustrates synergy, the water symbolizes purity and self-reflection, and the monument is situated where all these elements meet to give a sense of harmony that is created by diverse materials.

Getting together is an art, living together is a masterpiece!

 #integration #diversity #interaction #inclusion #equality