05_Stop
TBILISI / 2024
The object of my attention is the old bus station in the center of Tbilisi located at 8 Zviad Gamsakhurdia Named Right Bank. The building has long ceased to function as a bus station and is currently unused. From several acquaintances, I’ve heard that about 10 years ago there was also a nightclub located there. According to available information in the media, there is a high probability in the coming years that it will be demolished and replaced by a multi-story new building (likely with a commercial function). The building clearly represents artistic and historical value, so in my opinion, the potential disappearance of the former bus station cannot be overlooked, especially considering the high likelihood of its loss in the next 2-3 years.
before
now
after
My proposal is to try to draw attention to the former bus station and create a focal point next to it, even if only temporarily. Currently, both cars and people pass by the building, as there is no spot directly nearby to stay for longer. Therefore, I suggest “planting” a bench-seat on the curb of the sidewalk in front of the building and placing an installation resembling a ticket kiosk near the stairs in front of the former entrance. It won’t be possible to buy tickets though (hence the sign in the window). In this case, the kiosk becomes an artifact of the past and a time machine, also creating an interesting dialogue between kiosk and the passing cars which no longer stop to pick you up. The bench on the other hand serves as a metaphor for the queue and the waiting area for a bus that will never come, while also inviting people to linger in this place, creating a new situation in the city, which, I hope, can revive the conversation about the station (and maybe even help save it from destruction). The installation also creates “roadside picnic” spot where one can pause and look at the Mtkvari river and the “river” of cars in front of it.
