Psychogeography is a field of study that examines the relationship between the physical environment and the emotional, behavioural and experiential responses of individuals. The concept of psychogeography first emerged in the 1950s within the Situationist movement, particularly through the work of Guy Debord and the Lettrist group.

 

Psychogeography focuses on the impact of the urban environment, including streets, buildings, and public spaces, on individuals’ perceptions and emotional states. Those engaged in psychogeography frequently undertake “derives,” or aimless perambulations through the city, with the objective of investigating the manner in which the urban context shapes their experiences and moods.

 

One of the primary objectives of psychogeography is to challenge the conventional, homogenised perception of the city and to identify novel approaches to engaging with urban environments. This often entails the discovery of  previously unnoticed or disregarded elements within the urban fabric, in a practice that integrates the physical exploration of space with a critical and creative reflection on architectural design, urban planning, and human behaviour.

 

The exercise: “Derive”

The “derive” is a well-known psychogeographic technique that involves a spontaneous, aimless walk through an urban environment. The aim is to allow the environment itself to act as a guide, following the suggestions and impulses of the moment rather than a predetermined logic. During a derive, individuals may be drawn to specific details, atmospheres, or directions, thereby discovering new aspects of the urban space.

 

Derive Exercise: Space Exploration

Objective: This derive exercise is designed to explore urban space through a series of techniques that stimulate sensory perception and personal reflection on space.

 

Instructions

Free Exploration

Begin the exercise by exploring the space around you without following any predetermined logic. Even though you are familiar with the area, let yourself be guided by your sensations, the details that catch your eye, and the impulses of the moment. Don’t plan your route; move spontaneously, responding to the atmospheres and details that draw your attention.

 

Guided Exploration

After the free exploration, start exploring the space by following the 10 rules described below. Apply one rule at a time and in sequential order, allowing each to inspire you before moving on to the next:

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Turn only left

Move through the space by only making left turns. Discover where this limitation takes you.

Circular movements only

Perceive the space by making only circular movements. How does this change your experience of the place?

Search for sharp corners

Seek out sharp corners in the space. What do you find, and how do you feel in these places?

Search for porous materials

Look for porous materials (like stone, wood, fabrics) and observe how they influence your perception of the space.

Search for your favorite color

Identify your favorite color in the surrounding space and follow its path.

Search for the brightest spot at noon

Try to identify the spot where, in your opinion, the most light arrives at noon. Pause there for a moment and reflect on your choice.

Search for the least bright spot at 3:00 PM

Now, find the place you think receives the least light at 3:00 PM. What sensations emerge in this space?

Let your sense of smell guide you

Follow your sense of smell to a place where the scent reminds you of something or is particularly pleasing to you.

Search for the spot of greatest discomfort

Explore the space until you find the spot where you feel the least comfortable. Take note of your reactions and the reasons for this discomfort.

Search for the spot of greatest comfort

Finally, search for the spot where you feel most comfortable. End your exploration in this space, reflecting on what makes it special for you.

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Conclusion: After completing the journey, take some time to reflect on how each rule influenced your perception of the space and how you felt during each phase of the exploration. Share your experiences with the other participants.

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PLEASE FILL OUT THE FORM EITHER WHILE YOU ARE DOING THE EXERCISE OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER COMPLETING IT Remember that there is no right or wrong, and you will not be judged