UNLOCKING PUBLIC SPACE

How much do we know about the spaces we live in? Do we know the stories hidden within the buildings we pass by every day? Does public space belong to citizens, and what opportunities exist for unlocking and enriching it? How was Subotica’s heritage once current and modern, and what legacy are we leaving for future generations?

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This two-day program aims to spark dialogue, bring people together, and reflect on the potentials and purposes of public spaces, the needs of citizens, the responsibilities of professionals who enable changes in public spaces in our society, and how contemporary practices shape our heritage.

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The European Fund for the Balkans (EFB), under the auspices of the Network of European Foundations and the Engaged Democracy Initiative (EDI) program, supports the program.

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Friday, May 10, 2024, 6 PM

Walk: "FACES OF PETEFI ŠANDOR STREET IN SUBOTICA," led by Prof. Dr. Viktorija Aladžić

Walk: "FACES OF PETEFI ŠANDOR STREET IN SUBOTICA," led by Prof. Dr. Viktorija Aladžić

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Viktorija Aladžić is an architect, urban planner, and expert in heritage protection and revitalization of her hometown Subotica. She is an associate professor at the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Subotica.

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Once known as Peštanska Street, Petefi Street emerged along the main road connecting Subotica to Baja and Halaš, two of the seven primary routes linking Subotica with nearby cities and capitals. Connecting Subotica's main market square and main street (now Trg Jakaba i Komora) with the intersection branching into the Baja and Halaš routes (now Trg kralja Tomislava), Petefi Šandor Street attracted a diverse crowd with various interests, nationalities, and cultural backgrounds, contributing to its unique character and historical significance. During the walk, which begins at Victims of Fascism Square, we will visit around twenty houses along this street, exploring their history, architecture, and cultural richness as explained by Prof. Dr. Viktorija Aladžić.

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After the walk, guests are invited to a reception at Klara and Rosa, where they can learn about the space and opportunities to participate in our programs. This informal gathering opens space for exchange and connection among community members.

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Saturday, May 11, 2024

6 PM – Film Screening: "The Art of Memory"

7:30 PM – Panel Discussion: "Public Space in a Contemporary Context"

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Speakers: Viktorija Aladžić (Architect, Professor, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Subotica), Iva Čukić (Architect, Ministry of Space, Belgrade), Jelena Radenović (Film Director, Belgrade)

Moderator: Nela Tonković, Art Historian

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Topics include spatial planning practices and models from the past, the use of public space in developed societies, the challenges of investor-driven urbanism, and ways to address current issues. The power of solidarity and collective action.

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