Networked urban screens and participatory public spaces

Large video screens have become a distinctive aspect of contemporary cities. Despite their initial history as a medium predominantly used for advertising, recent developments suggest they can offer innovative tools for exploring new modes of social interaction and cultural exchange. This paper argues that large screens such as the one in Melbourne's Federation Square represent a new generation of screens, both in terms of spatial location and civic orientation. Drawing on fieldwork conducted in Australia, the Netherlands and the UK, a model is presented for three emerging 'alternative' uses of large screens. It is argued that, in the context of high-speed digital networks such as Australia's National Broadband Network, urban screens now have the potential to move beyond 'ambient television' to play a role in initiating new collective interactions in public space.