Blended World Map
The Blended Map Project aims to create an immersive, multi-dimensional experience by combining a physical map with digital elements. This interactive installation allows participants to contribute both digitally and physically, capturing a rich tapestry of experiences and stories from the targeted communities in New York. Intended to first be presented at the 2024 celebration, it will continue to have a persistent virtual presence, and hopefully will also receive some play on the various displays at City Tech, and most hopefully at the DNALC exhibit space.
Blended Map Project
Objective:
The Blended Map Project aims to create an immersive, multi-dimensional experience by combining a physical map with digital elements. This interactive installation allows participants to contribute both digitally and physically, capturing a rich tapestry of experiences and stories from the targeted communities in New York.
Features and Implementation
Physical Map Installation:
A large, printed or textile map is displayed in a public space, representing New York with significant locations highlighted. The map could be made of durable fabric, vinyl, or another suitable material, allowing for physical interaction. Our intent is to display such a map for the 2024 Anti-Hate initiative, and have this map available during the duration of the event.
Virtual Map Installation:
A URL or other site is available to access this map digitally, thus also making it available for large screen or projected technologies. Participants can access the map here as well.
Digital Projection and Integration:
Digital components, such as stories, historical facts, and images, are projected onto the physical map. These projections can change dynamically, offering an engaging visual experience.
Participant Contributions:
Participants are encouraged to pin or attach objects, pictures, written recollections, or other memorabilia directly onto the map at relevant locations. This physical interaction adds a personal and communal layer to the project.
Participants may also access the digital presentation of the Map (which would be available online). Here they may upload additional information, pictures, statements, links, etc. These would be tied geographically to a coordinate, and may also refer to a different coordinate on the map (note both contributions may need to be curated, but this is for further discussion. Perhaps people may need to use their actual City Tech or CUNY ID in order to contribute)
Other types of contribution should also be considered, as this is currently a concept and not fully fleshed out.
Digital Capture and Repository Integration:
Cameras or scanners positioned above the map capture these physical contributions. Advanced image recognition technology can categorize and digitize these items, integrating them into the digital repository of the Anti-Hate Initiative.
Interactive Touchpoints:
Specific areas on the map can be equipped with sensors or touchpoints where participants can interact to reveal digital content, stories, or multimedia presentations related to the location.
Workshops and Guided Interactions:
Organize workshops or guided sessions where participants can learn about the map, contribute their stories, and understand the significance of the locations and narratives.
Accessibility Considerations:
Ensure that the physical interaction with the map is accessible to all, including those with mobility challenges. Provide alternative ways for those unable to physically access the map to contribute their stories digitally.
Educational and Community Impact:
The Blended Map Project serves as a powerful educational tool, bridging the gap between digital and physical storytelling.
It offers a unique way for community members to engage actively with the project, contributing their personal touch to a collective narrative.
This project fosters a sense of ownership and personal connection to the initiative, encouraging ongoing participation and interest.
By combining digital and physical elements, the Blended Map Project offers a comprehensive and engaging way to document and celebrate the diversity and history of the AAPI and Jewish communities in New York. It becomes a living archive, constantly evolving with the contributions of those who interact with it.
Animated Immigration Map to the United States.
This animated sequence displays source and destination locations for immigration to the United states from its beginning to 2013.
Interactive Blended Map Design Document 1Project Team
Nicholas Ramdin: Software Programmer
David B Smith: Faculty Advisor
Genetic Map Objective:
Leverage the redacted 23andMe database to provide a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the genetic diversity and historical migration patterns of the AAPI and Jewish communities in New York, and to visually represent this data on the Blended Map.
Genetic Map Implementation Ideas
Implementation Ideas:
Visualizing Genetic Diversity:
Use the genetic data to create visual representations of the genetic diversity within the AAPI and Jewish communities. This can include heat maps or color-coded areas on the Blended Map, indicating genetic variances or concentrations.
Historical Migration Patterns:
Illustrate migration patterns that have shaped the demographics of New York's AAPI and Jewish populations. This could be depicted as animated paths or lines on the map, showing migration flows over time.
Interactive Genetic Information Points:
Integrate touchpoints on the map where participants can access information about specific genetic traits or historical data relevant to the location they are exploring. This could include insights into how genetics and history have influenced community formation in different areas of New York.
Educational Content and Workshops:
Develop educational materials and conduct workshops explaining the basics of genetics, the significance of the data, and how it relates to the broader themes of the Anti-Hate Initiative.
Personalized Genetic Journey:
Allow individuals who have had their genetics tested through 23andMe to see how their personal genetic history connects to the broader narrative displayed on the map. This would require careful privacy considerations and consent protocols.
Data Privacy and Ethical Considerations:
Ensure all displayed genetic data is anonymized and used ethically. It’s crucial to respect privacy and avoid any potential misuse of sensitive information.
Integration with Digital Stories and Narratives:
Combine genetic data with personal stories and historical accounts on the map, offering a holistic view of the community's history that intertwines genetics, personal experiences, and broader historical contexts.
Educational and Community Impact:
The integration of this genetic data can enhance the educational value of the Blended Map, offering insights into the complexity of human genetics and migration, and how we can use genetics to learn more about the past.
It can foster a greater understanding of the deep-rooted connections between people and place, and the shared histories that bind communities together.
By thoughtfully incorporating genetic data from the 23andMe database, the Blended Map Project can become not just a tool for understanding cultural and historical narratives but also a window into the fascinating world of human genetics and its role in shaping communities. This approach can deepen the appreciation for diversity and interconnectedness within and beyond the AAPI and Jewish communities.
Genetic Map
