E.Y.B.D.M.: Secret Design Manual for a Space Station

Human dwellings have evolved into complex infrastructures that allow lives to intertwine, fostering relationships. In such places some zones are unanimously considered as centres of social activity, experienced by the public. They exist for a crucial reason: they represent a shared space where the most fundamental human rights can be carried out and, at the same time, be protected. Yet their true existence is at stake. The administration of many Metropoleis is selling city land to private investors for profit. These spaces become subject to their owner’s regulation, which is usually kept undefined. They all have the same features: open and accessible like every public square or public garden, they are guarded by private security and CCTVs. While it may sound neutral, this poses a threat to the fundamental freedoms of man.

I created a dystopic space setting, in a not-so-distant future. In this universe, huge private companies participated in the conquest of space. For their philanthropic contribution they have been granted extra-terrestrial land, on other planets. Many have built bases where their employees have to work but are not granted a space to carry out their individual freedoms: the laws let them shut down any attempt at protesting, gathering, expressing their feeling because they own every inhabitable space. At the same time, the companies control the employed workforce though a devious signage system that doesn’t tell you what you cannot do but rather suggests you how to behave. The manual is given to the management force through an interactive platform.