Benchmarks Project

I worked in three NYC public schools in the Spring, 2023, to create a unique design with students on a bench which culminated in an all-school event at Washington Square Park in June, 2023. I worked with the students to come up with a specific societal issue that the they chose and then visually depict it on a bench through the non-profit CEI. These topics ranged from mental health awareness, ocean pollution and environmentalism. Through sketchbook and ideation exercises, we arrived at a design that utilized the front and back of the bench, as well as the part where people would sit. Below are examples, as well as in-progress photographs, of the benches through various stages of the design. It’s a great pleasure to be able to work with students of this age. I have worked in various schools through this Benchmarks project since 2019 and look forward to it each year.