Lansdowne Park Residential Community, in collaboration with Lansdowne UP. East St. Louis, IL. View of backyard, filled with native plants for ecologically resilient, habitat supporting landscape.
Meet Kelley
Tell us about yourself.
I am an assistant professor and landscape architect and have a passion for the ways design can shape and honor underrepresented communities and their histories. My work spans academic research, community engagement, and design projects that are deeply rooted in cultural narratives and ecological resilience. I enjoy using design as a tool for storytelling, bringing to light the erased histories of communities.
Briefly explain your artistic practice and/or scholarly research.
My practice and research intertwine landscape architecture and history with a focus on community-engaged design. I explore how design can reflect historical narratives. I combine archival work, field research, interviews, and participatory design techniques to uncover and document stories to bring forward into design. This research not only tells the stories of the landscapes themselves but also informs new approaches to designing healthy, equitable spaces.
What sparked your interest in this work?
My interest in this work began with my background in practice of both architecture and landscape architecture, and how these disciplines are shaped by cultural and social histories, and the evolution in how they serve people over time. I’ve had many great opportunities over the years of practice and teaching to build these skills and to share with others.
Lansdowne Park Residential Community, in collaboration with Lansdowne UP. East St. Louis, IL. View of backyard, filled with native plants for ecologically resilient, habitat supporting landscape.
more details
How do you hope your work impacts people?
My hope is that the work I do inspires people to look more closely at the spaces and landscapes they inhabit and empowers them to explore the layered histories and narratives embedded within them. I aim to create a deeper understanding of the intersections between land, history, and identity.
What is your favorite or informal way or space to engage with arts and culture in your community?
I certainly enjoy engaging in my community informally around music and food. I find these interactions to be rich inspiration and gives space for people to tell their own stories through these medium. They allow for creative expression and community building that grounds and energizes my work!
Anything else you’d like to add or emphasize?
I would emphasize the importance of collaboration and listening in my research and practice. Working with students, colleagues and community members, I believe the best ideas come from collective input, and it’s fun when people are empowered to share their perspectives. I’m committed to continuing work that is not only historically informed but also responsive to the current needs and voices of the people I engage with.
Lansdowne Park Residential Community, in collaboration with Lansdowne UP. East St. Louis, IL. View of Central Courtyard for community gatherings. Plantings to connect with nearby historical Jones Park.