Connecting people, places & stories
STORYBOX creates digital portals for public imagination and creativity in shared spaces.
This is not just an LED BOX! The program is supported by custom digital products, immersive experiences, engagement methods and evaluation tools, all underpinned by a mission to rethink the possibilities of outdoor media for purpose-driven places, events, festivals and precincts.
WHO WE ARE
STORYBOX is the creation of Dr. Sarah Barns and Michael Killalea of Studio ESEM, a purpose-driven digital creativity practice based in Sydney, Australia.
The platform builds on research and strategy insights on digital placemaking & platform urbanism by Dr. Sarah Barns, working alongside creative director Michael Killalea. The technology to deliver the programs was supported by AV engineer Leif Wilson and Guerilla Constructions. Together, the three of have been iterating and growing STORYBOX since 2020, building on over 40 outdoor placemaking programs delivered in communities since 2013.
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![Michael Killalea Project Lead STORYBOX]()
Michael Killalea
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Dr. Sarah Barns
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![Leif Wilson for STORYBOX]()
Leif Wilson
OUR MISSION
We’re on a mission to inspire more ‘care-full’ public spaces, by leveraging digital technology to enhance public imagination and community creativity in shared precincts.
Since launching in 2020, STORYBOX has evolved to support purpose-driven organisations, cultural and educational institutions leverage the power of public spaces to engage diverse audiences, bringing the ‘inside out’ from the walls of galleries and museums. We expand reach, inspire creativity and connect with communities through digital curation programs supported by universities, museums, galleries and city governments.
“STORYBOX allows us to connect with a wider audience through a really engaging and striking medium.”
Kye Meurer, Head of Marketing for Bangarra Dance Company
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Neuro-diversity in public spaces
A STORYBOX Collaboration with UNSW co-designed a program designed to highlight the experience of public spaces for neurodivergent participants. Learn more
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'We Care' with RMIT
A workshop with RMIT University explored the future of the City North Social Innovation Precinct through the lens of care and common growth. Learn more about the RMIT Partnership.
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MoodRing Survey Tool
We created the MoodRing Survey Tool to support our partners better understand community sentiment on their programs and on the experience of public spaces. Experience the MoodRing here.
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Birds of Australia STORYBOX
STORYBOX supported this touring exhibition with the Australian Museum and ensured community insights were captured through custom surveys and community events. Learn about Birds of Australia STORYBOX.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
We co-design community programs in partnership with First Nations custodians, schools, universities and cultural organisations.
We’re guided by the work of Australia’s First Nations people, who have taught us the power of storytelling to shape how we care for places and our beautiful, fragile planet.
STORYBOX is also inspired by the work of committed storytellers around the world — creatives, dreamers, scientists, mothers and carers — who use the power of stories, real and imagined, to shape how we know and love places.
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![Tiny Stories on STORYBOX]()
Tiny Stories
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![Mirjam Hilgeman Australian National Maritime Museum]()
The people who make this place
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![Say hello to the future bright colours]()
Say hello to the future
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![Jannawi Dance Clan Net Fishing Dance still]()
Weaving Connections
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![Sugar skull illustration Art Portal]()
Art Portal
OUR PARTNERS
Some of the partners we’ve worked with to build public space engagement programs.
