Keri VanVlymen is a visiting research associate at the Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University. Eppley is one of seven research centers located at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community at Indiana University, Bloomington.
VanVlymen’s professional experience includes both landscape architecture and experiential graphic design – the development and design of wayfinding systems, signage, environmental graphics, and interpretive exhibits. During the course of her landscape architecture practice, she developed a focus on Parks and Recreation, including individual park and park systems master planning, trail development, program and facility planning, and historic site preservation and development.
Degrees
VanVlymen holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Florida State University and a Master of Landscape Architecture Degree from Ball State University.
Personal Statement
My genuine interest in people led me to parks design. I enjoy learning about places through the stories that people share about them, and I believe that it is important to reflect their values in each project. My approach centers upon inclusivity, diplomacy, and listening - not only listening to people, but also listening to the land. Throughout my practice of landscape architecture, I often preferred to take a lighter hand with my designs, letting places breathe, heal, and honor their history and natural aspects. I find inspiration in working with communities to share ideas, build consensus, and earn trust - all necessary elements in helping to preserve and create places that are restorative, accessible, celebratory, and beautiful.
Research Interests
- Equitable Access
- Park & Open Space Planning