The Sidewalk Ballet Field Guide

The Sidewalk Ballet Field Guide is a growing collection of the people, organizations, projects, books and ideas shaping the way we think about cities. It begins with the conversations on the podcast, but extends beyond them—connecting the people doing the work, the places where it’s happening, and the ideas worth carrying forward. Think of it as part reference library, part trail of breadcrumbs: a way to follow the ongoing conversation about cities wherever it leads.

Explore the Field Guide by type, browse alphabetically or by date, or search for something specific. Use the tags to follow connections between people, places, projects, ideas and conversations.

Episode 020, Episode 021 Chip Chip Episode 020, Episode 021 Chip Chip

Why Public Space Matters

Drawing on decades of ethnographic research around the world, Setha Low examines how public spaces contribute to belonging, social connection, justice, and democratic life—and why the everyday experience of plazas, parks, markets, beaches, and sidewalks matters to individual and collective flourishing.

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