Intervention, Engagement and Disruption

Andre Stitt held a lecture on “Intervention, Engagement and Disruption”, I found this incredibly interesting as there were some cases which inspired me for my final project for the field. One thing which I found interesting is understanding how CCTV cameras affect the way individuals behave when in an environment. CCTV cameras are used as a security method to catch an indecent or dangerous behaviour from the public, they are used in shops, streets and large venues to ensure the safety of the rest of the general public whilst they are in that space. Behaviour within different spaces can change depending on the atmosphere within the place, however, if individuals know they are being watched will they think carefully about what they do or say whilst in public places? In places which are dark and scary such as underpasses will the appearance of CCTV cameras help to prevent dangerous or suspicious behaviour therefore, enabling them to be safer for pedestrians? Throughout my research for my final project, I was disappointed not to find any security cameras on in the “Boulevard de Nantes” underpass. As a student I feel incredibly vulnerable when walking through underpasses; especially at night therefore, the fact that the place does not have any CCTV cameras is quite daunting. As part of my study, I want to place security cameras on each end of the underpass in the hope to increase the safety of the area and ensure that people’s behaviour is more acceptable to society’s public etiquette. In November 1996 The Surveillance Camera Players were formed. These are cameras which capture videos of activity within public places- Therefore, if you are caught on camera doing something you shouldn’t be doing then you can be charged as guilty. Some people believe that these cameras are invading the public places however, I personally believe that surveillance cameras can help with many things and help solve crimes.

CCTV CAMERA:

CCTV camera
One thing which I have noticed since moving to Cardiff is the amount of Homelessness which can be seen. Public places are the only spaces where homeless individuals can sleep, therefore, public spaces such as streets and underpasses are often used as recreational sleeping shelters for people of whom are unable to get off the streets. Andre’s lecture showed me that Krzysztof Wodiczko created a homeless vehicle in 1987-8, this was done in order to draw attention to homelessness within the area. This was a good way to reduce the number of homeless people who took shelter in underpasses and ensured that they had somewhere portable, dry and comfortable to sleep and eat. I found that when I investigated the underpass “Boulevard de Nantes” there were several homeless people using it as a shelter, initially I felt sorry for them as it was hard to see, however, as I walked past they were constantly begging for money which made me feel incredibly uncomfortable and vulnerable as I had no money to give them. Walking alone In the dark through these public places can be scary especially with limited light I also believe that eliminating the ability for homeless people to sleep in them can increase the safety of the spaces.