FACETED JUGS
As product designers we have an ever-increasing responsibility to not only design beautiful, functional things but to question potential issues with current trends and methods of production. Starting my MA in 2012 I set the focus of study on exploring different aspects of consumer - product attachment, as I believe, alongside a number of practitioners within the field, that it has potential to provide answers and opportunities when designing for a more sustainable future.
Alongside consumer attachment I wanted to question a number of issues that I believe exist in contemporary product design. The three points that define the project were:
Alongside consumer attachment I wanted to question a number of issues that I believe exist in contemporary product design. The three points that define the project were:
- Design a product that allows for meaningful interaction (between user and product) to take place.
- Design a product with the use of digital, up to date, technologies, alongside traditional craft production processes and materials.
- Reduce the distance between designer and production by getting involved with the production process.
Using a combination of techniques including; contrasting material finishes, a multifaceted form and an interchangeable handle system the user is encouraged to interact, explore and experience the product. This project therefore has achieved an increased level of interaction whilst not jeopardising other essential determinants to attachment. Pair this with designing for social situations and we further increase the meaning of attachment therefore reducing the user’s disposal tendencies and ultimately increasing the emotional lifespan of the product.
Over the duration of this project I have been experimenting with porcelain slip casting and subsequently developing an understanding that has directed the project. This knowledge allowed me to push the boundaries of what was possible within hand casting and by borrowing techniques from the injection moulding process I have managed to develop my own slip casting method to create my unique porcelain pieces. Without the material and process experience this discovery would not have been made so, in this case, decreasing the distance between designer and production has positive implications.
The necessity of projects such as this becomes obvious when we consider the impact that production and disposal of consumer products has on future environmental stability. Raising important questions regarding product longevity and providing insight into alternative methods of production will assist the development of design towards a more sustainable future.