Object that represents the problem of imposing infrastructure to a community. Without cultural infrastructure, edifices can create destruction.

Made using laser cutting bass wood and casting aluminum for the central piece.

Pacoima is not defined by a bustling downtown or a commodified branding. Instead the city can only be truly known through its culture, fostered by its people. The community takes pride in their engagement and identity by bringing tradition, place, and leaders forward. As a Pacoima native, I see how culture has brought people to engage in community events and battle through hardships. Through culture, people have engaged to install art throughout the community to showcase the rich history of Pacoima like legendary musicians like Richie Valens. Driven through passion for their home, 5 residents from Pacoima reached Washington in hopes to represent a marginalized community.

People here love to celebrate their identity and culture in a place they call their hometown, however through zoning and imposed infrastructure, the government has stepped into the city in hopes to c create a better place without the input of the people. Throughout the years, infrastructure like freeway 118 and 5, has physically bound Pacoima through the construction of edifices.

Today we know the definition of infrastructure as a system of public works or the foundation of a city. Instead I am redefining infrastructure to demonstrate the celebration of culture of a place. By introducing community led design and incomplete form, cultural infrastructure can have a significant impact on the celebration of place and identity. With partial form, the community of Pacoima has the opportunity to create solutions to their preferred needs. How can we redefine and design infrastructure that functions within the realm of the community, but also nurtures a sense of belonging and safety in the places we call home?