Reimagining our cities: alternative narratives through mapping

In this event of two parts, mmag residents makana along with CLUSTER from Egypt discussed and explored different ways to visualize urban spaces and cities. Using mapping as a tool, a discussion insued on how narratives can uncover hidden histories, social injustices, and community aspirations. By integrating art, technology, and public participation, the presentation showcased various projects that aim to rethink how we see our cities.

In the second part, the ways Amman's soundscapes affect our perception of of the city was put in action through a city walk. Through various methods of soundmapping, participants joined a walk in what is considered the public spaces in Jabal Amman, and listened while looking into the ways collaborative soundmapping can change the perspectives of the city.

CLUSTER - Cairo Lab for Urban Studies, Training, and Environmental Research - was founded in 2011 as an independent urban design and research platform, adopting an interdisciplinary approach to the city and public space. CLUSTER’s interest in heritage extends from mapping and research to curated tours and exhibitions, having a track record in Egypt, the MENA region, and cities in Europe and the Global South.