FEAR AND DESIGN; HOW CAN DESIGN IMPACT ON FEAR? HOW CAN DESIGN RAISE QUESTIONS ABOUT FEAR?

Abstract

This ongoing practice based research project investigates how design can work with or against fear, raise questions about fear and how rules about fear can be used in the design process.

The approach in this work is to raise questions rather than finding solutions or making products adjusted to commercial needs. The focus is put on fear of global warming, a topic of current interest.

The tool used in this case are textiles printed with thermo chromic paint that change in colour due to temperature. With this technique patterns and images can be modified, messages by text or images can appear and disappear.

The aim is to through images and patterns communicate and create awareness and to highlight topics in a subtle and poetic way rather than using the apocalyptic tone found in media for example. The aim is also to give a holistic picture and embrace the complexity of the issue rather than presenting straight answers.