A video response to Modesto’s repeated ranking as the most unlivable city of its size in the country. Modesto’s problems are many and deep rooted. Yet this ranking is in contrast to its reputation in the mid-20th century as a progressive community known for cutting edge architecture and urban design, and as one of the fastest growing cities in the country.
Structured around the city’s official slogan “Water, Wealth, Contentment, Health” this expressive video explores the city’s livability issues primarily through its architecture and urban design. A poetic juxtaposition highlighting architectural gems of Modesto with residential embodiments of the city’s issues of livability, such as the high rates of home foreclosure, infrastructure inequalities, poverty, crime, cost of living, and low rates of income.
Co-Directors: Jessica Gomula + Christian Hali.