Theaster Gates, a potter by training and a social activist by calling, wanted to do something about the sorry state of his neighborhood on the south side of Chicago. So he did, transforming abandoned buildings to create community hubs that connect and inspire those who still live there (and draw in those who don't). In this passionate talk, Gates describes his efforts to build a "miniature Versailles" in Chicago, and he shares his fervent belief that culture can be a catalyst for social transformation in any city, anywhere.<br /><br />TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes (or less). Look for talks on Technology, Entertainment and Design -- plus science, business, global issues, the arts and much more.<br />Find closed captions and translated subtitles in many languages at <a href="http://www.ted.com/translate" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.ted.com/translate</a><br /><br />Follow TED news on Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/tednews" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.twitter.com/tednews</a><br />Like TED on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TED" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/TED</a><br /><br />Subscribe to our channel: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TEDtalksDirector" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/user/TEDtalksDirector</a>