This
project by Dejong happened in the National Library of Rotterdam. It was ultimately
based on the books the children use in that library. The library itself was the
space available for this exhibition so they had to turn it into a magical world
were fairy tales come to life and what is usually read, now it is felt and
seen.
Basically
this library consisted of twelve pavilions, each pavilion unfolding a
particular topic. Spooky, Once upon a time, Comics and Animals were some of
these topics. These cubical blocks were covered were made in different sizes.
Giant book posters surrounded the walls to create a visual impact for children
making them look smaller and giving the chance to be immersed in this fantasy
world. There were also display cases which were built into the walls which
showed some of the historical children’s books in chronological order. Each pavilion
comprised sounds and lighting effects so the literature could become alive and
be integrated with the block itself.
Twlve Pavilions entailing different themes of literature
In
fact this project offered the children the opportunity to feel like they are
meeting their heroes as when they are young they would dream about becoming a
super hero. In each and every block the sounds of the corresponding theme were
on-going for example if one enters in the spooky block, one could hear the
thrilling sounds which makes the audience immerse them into the story. The
blocks were all covered in pictures and text with large font size. If a stall
conveyed bed time stories, there were cushions on the floor. The ceiling of the
block is covered with frames and stars so children would lie down and feel like they are
travelling in another world.
Nowadays,
children are growing at a fast pace. If they do not grow dreaming and ambitious,
they would not be able to appreciate other things in life. These kinds of
exhibitions will help them not on only from an educational level but also
morally and how they look at literature and value its potential.
The Animal Pavilion showing children on cushions
Reference:
Dejong, KD, 2010. Engaging Spaces. 1st ed.
Amsterdam: Frame Publishers
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