Emma Arnold, born in Bratislava, Slovakia, combines her background in Theatre and Urban Anthropology to explore narratives that shape our shared spaces, both those we celebrate and those we often overlook. Her master’s thesis examined the concept of korzo—a historic promenade in Bratislava—as a social practice, situating the street’s significance within broader social, historical, and political frameworks.
Emma approaches placemaking as a way to engage with multiplicity, where every street, square, memory, and story contributes to a collective urban experience. She is dedicated to revealing the layered connections between people and place, examining the patterns and rituals that draw us back to specific locations and ideas. Her thinking aligns with John Berger’s notion that “Never again will a single story be told as though it’s the only one,” and her storytelling aims not to define a single narrative but to offer “ways of seeing” that examine power dynamics and question the stories that public places preserve.
Her passion for storytelling drives her to explore power—its excesses, its reach, and the often-unseen actors within its influence. Whether through sketching, writing, or cycling to her next destination, Emma engages with stories as both an active and passive participant, affirming her belief that placemaking should embrace diverse perspectives and foster a sense of belonging for all.