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The primary object of this project is to thoroughly research and plan an installation for LaFarm through the farm, the college, and the Engineering Studies department. The project needs to be within budget, meet the physical needs of Lafarm, and represent the values Lafarm expresses through their work. After meeting with Lisa, the group has a greater understanding of the values and needs, and we are able to look at ideas for both the practical side and the expressive and artistic side of the installation.
The project is multifaceted, with both the major greenhouse design, as well as the small functional pieces outside of the greenhouse. The greenhouse is a project that is already in the works, and the group is creating an addition to the greenhouse proposal that includes the artistic elements mentioned earlier in the report, like the educational painted glass. The group is building on the proposal for the greenhouse, and adding the new artistic element of the painted glass, which will also serve as education about greenhouse functions and processes. The contact with the art department is extremely useful, as the artwork could be created within the art department and involve students. These smaller projects are a way for students to create functional art, learn about local culture, and interact with the farm. They will also serve as functional decoration to draw more attention to the farm, similar to the arts trail.
It is essential to stay within the scope of the project, as defined by Lisa and LaFarm. Straying outside of this scope would directly interfere with the workings of the farm, and hinder the community we are working with, rather than helping it. For the greenhouse, the group has a specific idea in mind for the painted glass. This specific idea can be accompanied with sketches of what the panels will look like, and how they will convey the educational concepts intended by the group. This is an opportunity for the group members to experiment with different designs and create a satisfactory proposal for the painted glass portion of the greenhouse.
The impact of this project will be great. The arts trail is currently a beautiful attraction for students and visitors alike, and the project will become a similar attraction. The art will draw students to the farm, and encourage them to learn more about sustainability and community gardens. The beautiful greenhouse and exciting smaller projects will become a unique part of the farm’s atmosphere, encouraging student involvement, and integrating the farm with everyday life at Lafayette.