DiG Keynotes

When city evolutions illuminated Newcastle's east end earlier this year it was apparent that something exceptional had arrived.

The brainchild of creative geniuses Chris Tucker and Mario Minichiello, City Evolutions is bringing research into the public domain in the form of a world-class interactive art project. Tucker and Minichiello, both based at the University of Newcastle, will provide a keynote address on their ground breaking initiative at the inaugural Design, Interactive Technology and Greentech (DiG) Festival in Newcastle this October 2-4.

The City Evolutions project, which unites the disciplines of architecture, computer science, software engineering, design, IT, and fine art, demonstrates the role of technology in achieving widespread public engagement with research.

Internationally acclaimed architect and University of Newcastle Master of Architecture program convenor, Chris Tucker, says the project offers a low cost, pragmatic solution to the ongoing Newcastle CBD revitalisation strategy debate.

"The project presents coursework and research as a form of entertainment in the public domain, activating the streets of Newcastle with small scale interventions and increasing the public amenity of these spaces until decisions can be reached on the future of the CBD."

Renowned illustrator Professor Mario Minichiello from the School of Design Communication and IT at the University of Newcastle, says the new experiences created by City Evolutions are changing the nature of Watt street and repurposing city spaces.

"Design and visual communication provide solutions to problems, promote clarity of thinking and encourage creative ideas. In this way we are developing the human capacity to meet the challenges of our future."

Chris Tucker and Mario Minichiello will deliver their keynote address at 1.30pm, Friday 4 October.