Marsha P. Johnson Park Activation - CODAworx

Marsha P. Johnson Park Activation

Submitted by Daniel Villella

Client

Location: New York, NY, United States

Completion date: 2025

Project Team

Exhibition Designer

D. Villella

D. Villella Design

Development Consultant / Professor

Sara DeAngelis

Springtown Studios

Overview

The Gay rights movement has largely been centered around cisgender white Gay and Lesbian people, leaving Queers of Color and Transgender and Nonbinary people excluded. It is imperative to honor Queer people of Color with the same vigor and dedication presented to cisgender white men. We must make their legacy visible to convey equity to the Queer community and people of Color alike, and use their stories to educate the public on these still relevant issues. This exhibition aims to be a permanent installation that honors Marsha P. Johnson, celebrates her legacy, celebrates and provides a safe space for gender and sexual diversity, and provides resources for individuals seeking to learn more about queer culture and history.

Goals

-Make queer legacies visible to convey equity to the Queer community and people of color alike, and
-Leverage queer their stories to educate the public on still relevant issues.
-Honor Marsha P. Johnson, and celebrate her legacy.
-Celebrate and provides a safe space for gender and sexual diversity.
-Provides resources for individuals seeking to learn more about queer culture and history.

Process

The goal was to create an installation rooted in equity, situated in a place with a story that needed to be made visible. For recognition, the trans- and progress- pride flags were selected as the basis for form and color, informed by Marsha P. Johnsons story and legacy, and placed at the park entrance to maximize visibility.