Leslie Tom, Detroit, MI

Artist Statement

This particular Sukkah project is called "transform". A sustainability (life cycle) lens has been applied to all aspects of this modern day Sukkah. Playing with the concept of history, the form of the top s'chach is taken from the red pyramids from the previous site of the Charles H. Wright Museum, now located at CCS. Although, this is a temporary structure, it is designed to have a community harvesting use after Capitol Park. '''COMMUNITY''': The space and interactive walls will gather community. The door is on hinges and rail system so when opened, can define a larger outdoor space or provide privacy to the resting visitor. In it's second life, this will transform into a shed and outdoor classroom to learn about harvesting. '''HOSPITALITY''' There is a space for someone to lay down and rest. In it's second life, this place of respite will turn into a cabinet for storage. '''TRANSCIENCE''' Walls are designed to frame temporary messages can be popped in and out; providing continuously changing artwork and messages on the exterior walls. The roof is a thatched pyramid with structural ribbing that can be seen on the interior to hang drying herbs. Quick connections provide easy assembly and disassembly. This temporary sukkah will be permanently placed for the Detroit Independent Freedom School youth garden at the Charles H. Wright Museum. The artist wants people to walk away with the idea that spaces are not stagnant and can transform.