99% Invisible

He's Still Neutral

Jul 31, 2019

Phoebe Judge, host of the podcast Criminal, joins Oakland resident Dan Stevenson, who installed a Buddha statue outside his home, and Kurt Kolstad, a digital director. They discuss how the Buddha became an unexpected community gathering spot, transforming a neighborhood burdened by trash into a sacred place. The trio also explores urban design's role in fostering communal ties, the impact of public art on crime dynamics, and how spirituality can offer a sense of belonging in challenging environments.

32:55

Creator website

Episode guests

Kurt Kolstad

Dan Stevenson

Phoebe Judge

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

3min

Navigating Crime and Community

3min

Buddha in the Neighborhood: A Tale of Transformation

14min

Art, Community, and Uplifting Narratives

4min

Exploring the Landscape of Accessible Design

3min

Reimagining Urban Spaces

9min

The Evolution of a Community Shrine

2min

The Evolution of Home Security: Ensuring Your Safety

2min

When confronted with trash piling up on a median in front of their home in Oakland, Dan and Lu Stevenson decided to try something unusual: they would install a statue of the Buddha to watch over the place. When asked by Criminal’s Phoebe Judge why they chose this particular religious figure, Dan explained simply: “He’s neutral.”

He’s Still Neutral

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