Artist Biography
Ainsley Luken will be graduating this spring with her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Interior Architecture. She has been recognized numerous times on the Dean’s list and is a member of Endicott’s Honors Society. During her four years at Endicott, she has worked closely with residential design firm, Saltwater Home. At Saltwater Home, she gained tremendous hands-on experience and knowledge in the field of interior design. Ainsley has been passionate about design since she was young, and is excited to pursue her career in the field post-graduation. She will be continuing in the professional world of interior design following graduation this summer, with plans to travel and seek design inspiration through different cultures and destinations. She is very excited for what this next chapter will bring and is grateful for her time at Endicott College.
Thesis Abstract
The Green Collective is a center for climate awareness and education with a focus on sustainability and wellness. Not only does The Green Collective positively impact the least-sustainable city of Detroit, Michigan, it positively impacts user wellness, drive to promote healthy practices, community outreach, and desire for involvement. Climate change is the single biggest threat to humanity. Caused by the release of CO2 emissions, global warming, pollution, and the energy crisis, climate change is harming health, destroying the environment, and ruining ecosystems. Sustainability is the main solution that must be taught. Through daily practices such as recycling, energy awareness, supporting sustainable food systems, biodiversity maintenance, and waste management, we can “meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” By promoting education and providing areas of learning, users will be more familiar with what climate change is, how it is affecting our world, and what steps to take in order to fight against it.
The Green Collective offers many wellness services including horticultural therapy, community events, healthy food options, a fresh market, and a private gym. A large exhibit center allows visitors to walk through five exhibits; The History of Climate Change, Greenhouse Gases and CO2 Emissions, Recycling and Waste, Sustainability, Wellness, and a Lecture Hall for community events and activities. The Green Collective is an inspiring space for all and promotes the wellbeing of oneself and the world as a whole.