Smart Places events

I recently completed curation of the Smart Places online illustrated blog and event series through my work with the Edinburgh Futures Institute and Edinburgh Living Lab, in collaboration with the Data-Driven Innovation programme. This series of illustrated thought pieces by diverse leaders on the topic of Smart Places over summer 2020, discussed challenges and future opportunities for the built environment, and the ways that data and digital approaches could be integrated with design and engagement processes to deliver positive impact.

As part of this work I worked with 7 different thought leaders on topics from digital placemaking to data-driven decision-making for the built environment and resilient cities, identifying key challenges and opportunities for the future. To visually communicate these concepts I engaged 7 different local illustrators (in addition to my own illustration for the overall series - shown above), whose editorial illustrations accompany each article. Key themes were discussed via 6 online events held live via Twitter as well as an webinar panel discussion. These events engaged over 400 people, with over 3000 reading the Medium articles.

Read the complete illustrated blog article series via Medium, and view or download the booklet summarising the series. Find out more.