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Design Fiction #Intercept2017

 

 

As a student of the Design Fiction class (NM4225), I was given the opportunity to showcase my group project during the second day of Interceptions. This presentation provided me with insightful inputs for the practice-based research process as I had to take on the role of an artist and curator. I must admit, it was exciting yet intimidating at the same time. Being the artist of my work and curator meant that I had to display my work attractively in the confines of the space and also to present to visitors in an engaging way. This was exciting as my groupmate, Insyirah and I challenged ourselves, played around with quirky ideas and pushed our threshold of creativity. We knew we had to produce a prototype that matched up to the standards of the exhibition, especially since it was a privilege to have our own work showcased at ArtScience Museum.

 

However, when it came to the actual showcase, it became intimidating as we met audience members who were not from our module and who may not appreciate our weird futuristic dystopian story world. Furthermore, it was not an easy task to present to different audience members of varying nationality, age and gender during the three hours. It took practice, some improvisation, a deal of enthusiasm, commitment and a lot of saliva. 

 

During the three golden hours, I definitely took in as much as I gave out with regards to my project. Visitors who came to our booth provided good feedback with their reactions, facial expressions, questions and responses. This was something that I needed to absorb quickly in order to do better for the next visitor who comes along. Halfway during the showcase, we ran out of candies (that were part of our presentation) to give out. This prompted us to think of another way to present it and such improvisation is probably akin to what curators may face in terms of falling/ breaking artworks or other unforeseen circumstances. Visitors also played a role in challenging my project, especially if they were unfamiliar with crazy, weird futuristic prototypes. One visitor got so frightened to proceed with our instruction, thinking that our pulse sensor will zap him. This lack of compliance posed as a problem when we were narrating our project. More importantly, he was challenging our perception of our audience.  We originally fit our audience under one umbrella, thinking they are receptive beings who follow instructions but we failed to consider their discomfort and even their differing ages, during the planning process. Thus, we had to improvise when we were presenting to children as their questions asked were simple but difficult to explain and answer. 

 

Overall, it was definitely a fun-filled presentation that took place out of the standard tutorial rooms or lecture halls. Being the artist and curator of my work, I definitely learnt a lot from interactions and conversations with the visitors. Best of all, I could implement the lessons learnt for my final presentation that will take place in week 13! 

 

 

P.S. I do think the Design Fiction showcase was a hit and it probably is a sign for them to be back for Random Blends next year!