a citizen-engaging art project that has created a new narrative for a marginalized residential area.
the light artwork continuously shifts color compositions in a loop of 50 different combinations designed by the local residents.

through communal walks in the area, tina Ratzer engaged residents of all ages in a design process inspired by the architecture of Stengårdsvej. the process culminated in an art day where small works were created – including eight-year-old hamda’s ”portal”, which became the foundation for the final light artwork. the park was later inaugurated as a new urban plaza, named portal park through a municipal competition.

“in my workshops, i use myself as a tool to create presence and trust. i involve citizens in the design process, encouraging them to take part and share ownership so that together we can develop unique artworks for the community.”

the art project and artwork are part of project 6705 + the danish arts foundation, where the foundation, in collaboration with esbjerg municipality, local stakeholders, and residents, created art experiences in the stengårdsvej area.