The divide of the Great Lakes Basin could be the most culturally accurate cartographic line for a new North American region — Freshturf.
Political boundaries were established at the centerline of Great Lakes water masses. At the Earth’s surface, however, social, cultural, and economic lines blur. Value systems within the Great Lakes Basin are relational, celebrating and relying on this major environmental system. Thus, political borders are fundamentally ‘soft’ in nature and compromise otherwise rich regional cultures. As we look to maintain and preserve these significant natural resources, and where technology (which defies physical boundaries) evolves, Studio Great Lakes seeks to design strategies and urban frameworks (GLurbanism) to support a diverse and expansive regional culture while challenging definitions of locale.
- Elizabeth George
