Memory in making : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a Master in Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
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Date
2022
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Massey University
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Abstract
Memory in making explores different ways we can utilise memories, nostalgic storytelling and reminiscing in the design and making process in the hopes of facilitating emotional attachment to products and breaking down barriers between designers, makers and users. In sustainable design research there is an increasing emphasis on the meaning of products and the emotional value they add to our lives, shifting away from the symptom-based approach which focuses on reducing energy and resource use. This behavioural approach looks more critically at the consumption systems in place and acknowledges that consumerism is a system which negatively impacts both the planet and consumers. My research takes an autoethnographic approach, exploring my own memories in order to design and make mnemoactive objects, grounding the project in relation to research on product attachment, object meaning, user-makers and memory. Memory in making explores and develops tools for designers and makers to use in order to add depth of meaning and narrative in the hopes of creating products with mnemonic qualities and sentimental value. I explored memories of my family and childhood to design products, eventually creating a rug and pyjamas, which can be seen as case studies for the process I have developed. I reference material from both product design and fashion design and argue the use of memories in making could be of value in multiple disciplines.