For this assignment, we were tasked with the assignment of creating a book that represented the community along East Cesar Chavez in Austin. We spent time in the area prior to creating our books to learn more about the community and the people who live there. The area is currently undergoing transformation as new residents are moving in and gentrification is occurring. I think our goal with this project was to preserve some part of the community and learn more about gentrification in the process.
I chose to create a book that highlighted some of the overarching fears and statistics associated with gentrification. Called “Creators of Paranoia,” I wanted to emphasize the stigma associated with gentrification, and bring to light some of the effects it has had on homeowners along Cesar Chavez. I created infographics, pulled quotes from residents, and included photos of houses in the neighborhood. My book was printed on glossy paper, and hard bound.
