What is the story behind our large wooden Tool Shed? In January the Walker hosted a charrette, a communal design brainstorm, to re-imagine the Walker’s backyard. One popular idea from that charrette was the notion of providing a set of “tools” for visitors to create their own experience in the field. Out of that was born the Open Field Tool Shed, a storage unit to house beloved, communal summer goods.
The Open Field Tool Shed represents a microcosm of the cultural commons. It is a space to check out and engage with shared goods, games and books for free. From Shel Silverstein to local reads from Graywolf, Coffee House and University of Minnesota Presses, your summer reading is all here. You can check out a croquet set or an iPad (take advantage of the field’s new Wi-Fi), play bean bag toss or a card game, watercolor or listen to the radio. And when the weather is as warm as it is today, you can even use the sun shelters and blankets for picnicking.
There is also a chalkboard and bulletin board where you can post your own flyers, and find information on upcoming events and artist residency projects. The Tool Shed is a common space to share, communicate, and tap into.
One young lady enjoying an iPad offered, “This is the first time I’ve used an iPad, so it is pretty awesome.” Another onlooker found that “suction cup catch is a big hit with the kids.” There is something for everyone, no matter how small.
A special thanks to Target for supplying many of the items in the Tool Shed.
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