Street Exploration

Graduation Project by Robin Smits

This innovative design research project reimagined street harassment prevention through an interactive public installation that transforms invisible social dynamics into tangible, visual experiences. Rather than lecturing youth about appropriate behavior, the creative intervention makes the impact of words literally visible and interactive.

The centerpiece creative component is Street Exploration – a dynamic installation featuring mirrors and wall projections that respond in real-time to participants’ voices. When young people speak, their words trigger visual changes: positive statements cause their projected shape to grow larger and brighter, while negative comments make it shrink and dim. This gamified feedback loop creates an immediate, visceral understanding of how words affect public space.

The installation incorporates youth-designed mirrors that showcase real examples of street harassment, creating a dialogue between participants and their community. These aren’t passive displays but active creative tools that foster public conversation and reflection.

Through participatory design sessions with youth hubs and schools, the project revealed that street harassment among 12-17 year olds is deeply connected to identity exploration and belonging. The creative approach acknowledges this developmental reality, providing a safe space for boundary-testing without harm.

This Research through Design methodology demonstrates how creative interventions can address complex social issues by making abstract concepts like “impact” and “harm” immediately visible and experiential, empowering youth to explore their social identity responsibly while fostering community dialogue.

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