Two women engaged in a creative activity at a table covered with papers, photos, craft supplies, bottle of water, snacks, and drinks. They are bending over the table, working on a project. The setting appears to be an indoor room with windows and blinds, and a red cabinet is visible in the background.

People standing in line in front of a large ornate stage with a mural, inside a church.

Explorations of Awe in Public Life

Explorations are how we bring awe into public life as a lived and shared experience. They are place-based inquiries that work with communities to notice, test, and understand where awe shows up and what it makes possible. Each is a learning process and an open invitation to collectively imagine what awe could do for public life.

An orange rotary dial telephone placed on top of a dark blue and white display stand with text discussing the future of telecommunications.

People gathered around a large map on a table, examining and discussing it. Some individuals are writing notes on sticky notes and using their phones. The background features display boards with information and photographs, indicating an indoor event or exhibit.

Discovering moments of Awe

ENGAGEMENTS, PROJECTS, REFLECTIONS

Featured

Exploration

A walk of aspiration and hope

Exploration

How can surfacing stories of social mobility infuse hope and belonging among students in Harlem?

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Exploration

In awe of Charlotte

Exploration

Where do young people find awe, wonder, and connection in Charlotte?

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Exploration

Collective kindness in New York City

Exploration

In a city known for its constant motion, what stops people in their tracks?

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Exploration

Madinah as sacred urban life

Exploration

What does awe look like when sacred rhythm and shared devotion shape everyday public life?

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Exploration

Where do you find awe and wonder in your neighborhood?

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Where do you find awe and wonder in your neighborhood? *

The toolbox

As part of our research, we’ve developed tools to capture how awe shows up in everyday public life. Designed for researchers, practitioners, and communities, they help turn lived experience into meaningful insights. Try them in your own context and share what you discover.