– Positions through iterating
Annotated Bibliography:
1. Colomina, B. and Wigley, M. (2016) Are we human? notes on an archaeology of design. Istanbul Tasarım Bienali, Zürich, Switzerland: Lars Mul̈ler Publishers.
“Are We Human?” challenges and deepens my understanding of my specific area of interest by exploring the relationship between human beings and design in the context of contemporary society. This reference provides a critical angle on the topic I am exploring by examining the human experience and how it is shaped by design and technology. It prompts me to reflect on the impact of environmental sounds on our identity formation and raises questions about the role of design and print in shaping our perception of the world. By considering the human element in my riso animation practice, I can strive to create designs that resonate with people on a deeper level, engaging their senses and emotions through a thoughtful response to environmental sounds.
2.Rock, M. (1996) ‘The designer as author’, Eye Magazine [Preprint]. Available at: https://www.eyemagazine.com/feature/article/the-designer-as-author.
Michael Rock’s “Designer as Author” challenges the traditional boundaries of design and presents the designer as an author. This reference enhances my understanding of my area of interest by encouraging me to approach my riso animation practice as a form of storytelling. It challenges me to think beyond aesthetics and explore the narrative potential of design and print. By considering myself as an author, I can infuse my work with personal expression and unique perspectives. This reference pushes me to experiment with different methods of iterating and translating my ideas into visual narratives, allowing me to deepen the impact of my designs and establish a stronger connection with the audience.
3. Charles, M.E. (2019) ‘Existentialism in the (Post-) Digital Era’, 1 March. Available at: https://imma.ie/magazine/existentialism-in-the-post-digital-era-charles-melvin-ess/
In “Existentialism in the (Post-) Digital Era,” Ess discusses the existential challenges posed by digital technologies. The author highlights the ethical dilemmas, privacy concerns, and distractions that arise in our increasingly digitized lives. This reference deepens my understanding of the complex relationship between technology and existential reflection. It reminds me of the need to critically examine the impact of digital tools on my own practice and the potential risks they pose to authentic self-expression and contemplation. It also draws attention to the growing desire for analog experiences in a post-digital era, prompting me to explore how I can integrate physicality and embodied experiences into my design work.
4. Carr, N.G. (2011) The shallows: what the Internet is doing to our brains. Norton pbk. [ed.]. New York: W.W. Norton.
“The Shallows” challenges my approach by exploring the effects of digital technology on our cognitive processes and attention spans. This reference deepens my understanding of my specific area of interest by highlighting the potential consequences of excessive screen time and digital distractions. It urges me to consider how environmental sounds and the constant influx of information impact our ability to shape our identity through design and print. By incorporating elements of mindfulness and conscious design into my riso animation practice, I can create experiences that counteract the shallow nature of digital consumption, fostering a deeper connection with the environment and promoting a more contemplative engagement with design and print.
5. Neon Genesis Evangelion Freedom Scene (1995). Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXbCWJNfq_0
The episode 26 of “Neon Genesis Evangelion” provides an interesting relationship to my new iterations by challenging conventional narrative structures and exploring complex themes of identity and self-discovery. This reference prompts me to consider unconventional approaches to storytelling in my riso animation practice. It encourages me to experiment with nonlinear narratives, abstract visual metaphors, and symbolism to evoke emotions and convey the intricate relationship between environmental sounds and personal identity. By drawing inspiration from this project, I can push the boundaries of my own practice, creating designs that transcend traditional storytelling techniques and engage viewers on a deeper, introspective level.
6. My Trip to Japan (2018). Available at: https://dantezaballa.com/My-Trip-to-Japan-Short-film
Dante Zaballa’s project, “My Trip to Japan,” offers a personal account of his experiences and reflections during his journey. This reference resonates with my line of enquiry by emphasizing the significance of personal experiences in shaping one’s identity. It challenges me to consider how my own encounters with environmental sounds and cultural contexts can influence my design process and outcomes. By incorporating elements from my own trips and experiences into my riso animation practice, I can infuse authenticity and a sense of personal connection into my designs. This reference inspires me to explore the relationship between travel, environmental sounds, and the formation of identity through design and print, pushing me to create designs that capture the essence of my personal journeys.
7. MUTO a wall-painted animation by BLU (2008). Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuGaqLT-gO4
BLU’s project, “MUTO: A Wall-Painted Animation,” presents a captivating and unconventional approach to animation through street art. This reference challenges my understanding of animation and expands my creative possibilities in riso animation. The project’s large-scale visuals and interactive elements inspire me to think beyond traditional formats and explore how I can incorporate environmental sounds into immersive and site-specific animated experiences.
Short Statement:
My line of enquiry focuses on utilizing riso animation as a means of responding to environmental sounds and shaping my identity through design and print. Through a process of iterative exploration and translation, I aim to investigate how environmental sounds can inform and influence the visual narratives and aesthetic choices within my animations.
Specifically, I am researching how the integration of environmental sounds into riso animation can evoke emotional responses and deepen the viewer’s engagement with the artwork. By carefully selecting and translating the auditory elements into visual representations, I aim to create a multisensory experience that resonates with the audience on a deeper level.
Throughout my research, I will experiment with different techniques and approaches, such as nonlinear storytelling, abstraction, and the incorporation of personal experiences. By pushing the boundaries of traditional animation methods and embracing the unique capabilities of risograph printing, I seek to craft designs and prints that reflect the intricate relationship between environmental sounds, personal identity, and the creative process.
Through ongoing iteration and refinement, I aim to discover new perspectives, challenge conventional notions, and ultimately contribute to the evolving field of riso animation by exploring the dynamic interplay between sound, design, and personal identity.