Happy City Denver experiments

Urban design
Written By Happy Cities

Denver, Colorado

Does the way we commute affect how generous we are? And what happens when city dwellers share their feelings and personal burdens with complete strangers?

Happy Cities explored these questions with the Denver Theatre District and contemporary artist Stuart Semple in two very different social experiments. Both were part of Happy City Denver, a citywide, six-week series of art interventions that launched in May 2018.

We discovered some interesting answers. Semple’s “Emotional Baggage Drop” installation—a public confessional located in Union Station—revealed evidence that art installations can play a role in reducing social isolation. In our “Multi-modal Altruism” survey, which assessed people’s generosity based on their transportation choices, we found that cyclists were the most generous of all commuters.

Instructions for an interactive activity called "Emotional Baggage Drop," where participants sit, listen, share burdens, and receive affirmations in a guided, contemplative experience, as seen through a peephole.

Image credit: Third Dune Photos

A booth titled "Emotional Baggage Drop" is staffed by an individual engaging with visitors, providing a space for emotional expression and support.

Image credit: From the Hip Photo

An individual in a "HC" shirt is engaging in conversation with another person on an urban sidewalk, with Whole Foods and Union Station signage visible in the background.
The photo shows a row of bicycles with colorful baskets adorned with playful and whimsical designs, parked and ready for use. The bright, eye-catching patterns on the baskets add a cheerful and artistic touch to the scene.

Image credit: Mark Stevens

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