A visual exploration of the transformation of cultural landscapes in little Jamaica between Allen Road and Oakwood Avenue, comparing two periods in history: 1969 and the current condition
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This research is a visual documentation of changes between Allen Road and Oakwood Avenue in Little Jamaica. The study visually maps cultural landscape elements and links cultural markers to groups living in the location from 1969 through 2021. "Cultural marker" is a term I used to describe elements that trigger memories and experiences in addition to being associated with a specific culture. I used a narrative to provide a human component. The images comprise a front elevation of the built form supported by detailed illustrations and photographs of the frontage. The research identifies the significant contributions of Caribbean immigrants to the study area and highlights the loss that occurs when construction erases these elements without documentation. The cultural markers provide a sense of place to specific groups away from home. The research is also a foundation of a visual framework for studying changes in cultural landscapes in urban settings.