My name is Jiri Palayekar and I am a rising senior double majoring in Information Science and Psychology!
I am excited to be taking on my FHC Creative Arts project, which is centered around exploring and reimagining buildings tied to Pittsburgh’s queer history. For this project, I will be conducting research, taking photographs, and creatively reinterpreting these historically significant spaces to highlight their connections to Pittsburgh’s queer community.
The heart of my project lies in uncovering the stories and historical significance of various buildings within Pittsburgh that have played a role in the queer community’s history. By capturing these spaces through photography and reimagining them, I aim to bring attention to their unique histories and the pivotal moments they have witnessed. This process not only preserves these stories but also reinterprets them in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.
My research mentor for this project is Sean Morrissey. Sean’s work delves into the ways in which people shape their surroundings and how identity is constructed within those environments.
I believe this research is crucial because it brings to light the often overlooked or forgotten aspects of queer history in Pittsburgh. By documenting and reimagining these spaces, we can honor the past while also fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the queer community’s contributions to the city’s cultural and historical landscape. This project not only preserves these important stories but also encourages dialogue and awareness about the ongoing impact of these spaces on contemporary queer identity and community in Pittsburgh.
In addition to my FHC Creative Arts project I am also working on another project that aims to archive queer graffiti and public art in Pittsburgh. Both of these projects have been instrumental in helping me shape my professional goals and clarify my future aspirations.
These experiences have sparked a profound interest in the fields of archiving and urban policy. Through my projects, I have come to appreciate the importance of preserving historical and cultural narratives, particularly those that have been marginalized or overlooked. Archiving queer graffiti and public art, as well as reimagining historically significant buildings, has shown me how vital it is to document and reinterpret these aspects of our urban environment. This work has a direct impact on how we understand and engage with our history and community.
I am interested in the possibility of pursuing studies and a career in either archiving and information science or urban policy. Both fields offer the opportunity to continue the kind of work I am passionate about—preserving and advocating for the cultural and historical significance of marginalized communities. Archiving would allow me to focus on the preservation of artifacts and narratives, while urban policy would enable me to influence and shape the environments in which these stories are lived and told.
This summer fellowship is a crucial step towards achieving my professional goals. It provides me with the opportunity to engage deeply with my research, gain practical experience, and refine my understanding of the complex interplay between space, history, and identity.
Overall, this fellowship supports my academic and career aspirations by allowing me to immerse myself in meaningful, hands-on projects that bridge the gap between historical preservation and contemporary urban studies. It equips me with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to pursue advanced studies and a fulfilling career in fields that are dedicated to preserving and shaping our collective history and urban spaces.
