"Activating Urban Space for Health and Movement"
2025 WVU Art in the Libraries Faculty/Staff Exhibit Awardee:
Judith Wasserman
WVU Professor of Landscape Architecture
Fall 2025 - Spring 2026
WVU Downtown Library, Room 1020
In today’s academic and professional environments, where work and study often involve prolonged periods of sitting, this exhibit will offer a dynamic exploration of how thoughtfully designed public spaces can encourage healthy movement. Through a combination of educational and participatory components, visitors will experience how urban design can inspire physical engagement.
The exhibit will feature three sculptural installations, each intentionally crafted to stimulate movement through stepping, climbing, stretching and other forms of interaction driven by creative interpretation. Alongside the sculptures, informational displays explain the principles behind urban design for movement and health.
Visitors will be encouraged to contribute to the exhibit by photographing themselves or others engaging with the sculptures and sharing their experiences. A designated URL will allow participants to upload their photos and reflections, illustrating inspired motion and play. This crowdsourced collection will be made publicly viewable, fostering a communal dialogue about physical activity, creativity and wellbeing.
By integrating fun, physical engagement and interactive learning, “Activating Urban Space for Health and Movement” not only highlights the health benefits of movement but also celebrates the joy it brings—key factors in reducing stress and enhancing overall wellness.