Connecting art and development: studying the role of city art on bridges in forwarding urban sustainability

Abstract

ABSTRACT Bridges are important physical structures in a cityscape. With spaces in urban areas, becoming increasingly precious and important, even the bridges and their columns have gained a significant role in voicing city stories. Art on bridges are cultural expressions of urban narratives. The presence of artwork on the bridges also reduces the chances of these sheltered places from becoming hubs for antisocial activities. The study analyses the role of art on three important bridges in Chennai expounding on the communicative city theory. Coming up after infrastructural developments in the city, the artwork on these bridges serves as representatives of urban narratives. They include stories of social equity, environmental awareness and city activities, thereby promoting a positive city identity. The study also denotes the importance of increased community engagement to advance individual and community based participation in creating sustainable cities and diverse city communities.