Intercultural Design / ALL Assignment

Assignment Jump Link

1. MODULE INFORMATION BOOKLET

2. Assignment 1: Exploring Everyday Design

In this assignment, we will analyze and interpret "Everyday Design"—the subtle yet impactful design elements found in daily life. The goal is to research and develop a proposal that connects design with cultural and societal influences.

Key Tasks:

1. Research & Idea Development

  • Identify and interpret Everyday Design in relation to a chosen theme.
  • Explore how cultural influences shape design in daily life.

2. Proposal Creation

  • Write a 200-word explanation of your chosen theme.
  • Include at least 3 sketches representing your ideas.
  • Provide a written rationale and visual references that inspire your concept.
  • List sources and citations.

Process Writing 

At the start of the assignment, we formed a group and initially decided to explore the kawaii mascot culture in Japan, inspired by Sanrio. Our original idea was to create a mascot based on kawaii culture. However, we later shifted our focus to how cuteness culture can be integrated into everyday Malaysian life.

We then developed a problem statement, identifying that, due to economic growth, people tend to carry their belongings at all times for a sense of security, fearing they might lose them.

As a solution, we proposed creating public showrooms for personal items or incorporating kawaii elements into public transport. This way, people would feel emotionally connected to their surroundings, reducing the need to purchase additional items for security. However, we ultimately decided not to pursue this idea, as we felt it would be difficult to develop further.


Figure 2.1 (PDF) Research Process - 1st Initial Idea On Kawaii Culture

Instead, we explored four different ideas and, in the end, chose Sashiko and Boro stitching as our final concept.

Figure 2.2 (PDF) Research Process - 4 idea while researching (Ideation Process)

Process and Development

After an extensive ideation process, we finalized our topic and began conducting research. We then started developing our slides, sketches, problem statement, objectives, and aims for the assignment. To ensure efficiency, we divided tasks among team members, allowing us to collaborate effectively on research, sketches, rationale, write-ups, and slide design.

Since sewing plays a fundamental role in everyday life, we chose it as our central theme. My primary responsibility was creating the slides, where I incorporated key objectives, supporting details, and research findings.

  • Everyday Design - Sewing  
  • Theme - Sashiko and Boro Stitching + Decora Fashion

Our project focuses on addressing the growing issue of fast fashion waste. By promoting traditional Sashiko and Boro stitching techniques and incorporating Decora fashion, we aim to encourage sustainable fashion practices.

  • Problem Statement Fast fashion contributes significantly to excessive waste and environmental harm.
  • Solution By raising awareness of Sashiko and Boro stitching, we aim to inspire individuals to adopt these techniques, fostering a culture of upcycling and sustainability while reducing fashion waste.


Consultation Feedback - (20/02/25)

In today's consultation, we presented our research and ideas to the lecturer, including how our topic relates to our project. Below is the lecturer's feedback on areas for improvement, along with recommended changes we could implement:

Modernized decora culture, which adopted sashiko techniques or the mindset of mending and layering

  • Decora isn’t as refined and masterful as sashiko
  • But adopt the idea behind it?
  • Taking reference from the origins and add persona into it

Not just mended fabric -> it becomes a design

  • Focus in on decora culture, making it more fun 

FINAL OUTCOME 


SLIDE -PDF


PRESENTATION VIDEO

***For this presentation video, all of us attended, but not all of us presented. The outcome did not include those who were not presenting, as we did not realize that the recording did not capture everyone in the video.***





3. Assignment 2: Field Study

In this assignment, we will conduct a field study to collect and analyze cultural artefacts and materials (Base On Assignment 01). The goal is to explore how cultural elements influence design and document findings through research and observation. 

Key Tasks:

1. Data Collection & Research
  • Conduct a field study to collect visual, textual, and tactile artefacts.
  • Explore cultural influences on design through observation, interviews, and online/physical material research.
  • Record findings with supporting documentation.
2. Documentation & Presentation
  • Provide descriptions that clearly explain the significance of the collected artefacts.
  • Present findings in a structured format, preserving and organizing the materials.
  • Include visual and written records to support research insights.

Assignment Writing 

Data Collection Methods We Use :

1. Interview on Sashiko and Decora 

  • This interview explores opinions on fast fashion while introducing Decora fashion, Sashiko, and Boro stitching as creative, sustainable alternatives. We aim to assess awareness of these styles and discuss the possibility of blending Decora’s vibrant, layered aesthetic with Sashiko’s intricate stitching and upcycling. By repurposing discarded or outdated items into unique, personalized outfits, we hope to explore new ways of promoting sustainability in fashion by asking and collecting opinion on what we can do .
  • Secondary Research Method Used: Existing interviews and data integration
  • Target Audience: Decora Lovers

2. Visual analysis of Decora Fashion

  • This involves searching online and collecting data on what Decora fashion is and how it can be interpreted.

3. Online Survey about Decora Fashion with Sashiko / Boro Stitching

  • This survey aims to gather opinions on fast fashion (our problem statement) while also assessing people's awareness of it. However, its main objective is to introduce Decora, Sashiko, and boro stitching, evaluate how familiar people are with these styles, and introduce it to more people .
  • Target Audience: Students and Decora Lovers

TASK DELIGATION 
  • Interview (sashiko, decora each) Will
  • Visual analysis of decora fashion Isabel, Leia 
  • Survey about decora fashion Renee, Sueanne 


SHORT PROCESS WRITE-UP

After confirming the direction of our research and the questions we wanted to ask, we divided the tasks among ourselves. We distributed the form to friends and others for them to fill out, conducted interviews, and then compiled all the information into the presentation and data collection slides.


Final Outcome 

Canva Slide Link - SLIDE LINK
Data Collection Slide PDF




4. Assignment 3: Final Project

In this assignment, we will document and share our everyday design explorations through a TikTok page. This page serves as a cultural journal, capturing our observations, reflections, and insights. The goal is to create engaging short-form videos that educate, inspire, and deepen appreciation for everyday design.

Key Tasks:

  1. TikTok Page Setup

    • Choose a unique, memorable page name that reflects the theme.
    • Create a profile description that introduces our focus on everyday design.
  2. Content Creation

    • Introductory Video: A short video explaining our chosen theme, what viewers can expect, and why this topic is relevant.
    • Content Series (5-10 Videos): A collection of 15-60 second TikTok videos exploring different aspects of everyday design. These videos can include:
      • Vlogs capturing your real-time experiences and reflections.
      • Short interviews with locals, designers, or artists.
      • Informative explainers narrating cultural and design insights.
      • B-roll footage showcasing visually appealing scenes related to your theme.
    • Reflection Video: A concluding video summarizing key learnings, challenges faced, and personal insights gained from the project.
  3. Engagement & Presentation

    • Use relevant captions to provide context, explain insights, and engage the audience.
    • Incorporate hashtags related to your theme to enhance discoverability.
    • If possible, engage with comments or questions from your audience.

Final Outcome (FINAL ASSIGNMENT)

Presentation Slide - CANVA LINK

Presentation Slide (PDF)

Presentation Video
 



Personal Reflection


Comments

Popular Posts