DAVIED CORDERO
This is a figure-ground drawing of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico. A historical sector with building construction dating back to the 15th century to Spanish colonial rule. After transitioning to US control, the area was considered to be important for cultural representation and appreciation. The highlighted area encircles the Cuartel de Ballaja (Barracks of Ballaja) and the Plaza del Quinto Centenario (Quincentenary Plaza).
The aerial view shows the two city blocks of interests within del Valle Blvd, Beneficiencia St, Dr. Francisco Rufino de Goenaga St, and del Cristo St. The building serves multiple purposes, including a theater and bar, a coffee shop and museum, an art museum, a restaurant, and a dance school and studio. The plaza contains an art installation called the Telluric Totem representing the 500th anniversary of Colombus’ arrival to the Americas. Therefore, the community uses the plaza as place to meet for cultural celebrations and solidarity.
This drawing shows the three major characteristics in the surrounding square blocks. Narrow cobblestone roads allow for single vehicle, one-way traffic (represented by dashed lines) around the block with pedestrian sidewalks (represented by dotted lines). In the absence of crosswalks, stoplights, and street signage, pedestrians are expected to cross streets at their own risk. Given the conditions of the cobblestons, vehicles are able to drive through at reduced speeds allowing for better flow of traffic both vehicular and pedestrian.
This Actor-Network Map takes into account the significance of the art installation as well as the historical meaning of the plaza throughout the centuries. Although the plaza was built in 1992, it’s initial significance was to “honor” the 500th anniversary of Christopher Colombus’ arrival to the Americas. Historically, the country was controlled by Spain and later switched control to the United States. Given the lack of autonomy and independence, the Puerto Rican populace have therefore collectively used the plaza as a location to celebrate their cultural heritage, a mixture of native Taino Indians, Spanish conquistadors, and African slaves.
The image proposes a more direct usage of the public plaza for cultural activities. Normally used as a place for photographs and rendezvous, this shift incorporates more local populace and culture, incorporating a “piragua” cart and a woman dancing bomba. The plaza would be transformed to an extension of the cultural center within the Cuartel de Ballaja and attract more local crowds in addition to tourists.