(A Speculative Design)

INTRODUCTION

During my first semester at Sheffield Hallam University, I had the opportunity to work on a project that focused on raising awareness about the critical issue of air pollution. As part of the project submission, I wanted to design something that not only conveyed a powerful message but also reflected my cultural heritage.

Inspired by the alarming impact of air pollution on our planet, I created a design for a mask in the shape of an elephant’s head, with the elephant holding the Earth. This symbolic representation was deeply personal to me, as the elephant is an important cultural icon in Thrissur, Kerala, where it is associated with grandeur, strength, and reverence, particularly during the famous Thrissur Pooram festival. By integrating this cultural symbol with the design, I aimed to highlight the interconnectedness of nature, animals, and humans in the fight against environmental issues like air pollution.

The elephant holding the Earth was intended to serve as a visual warning—a reminder that the effects of air pollution are global, threatening both life on Earth and our cultural treasures. The mask not only served as a protective device but also as a piece of conceptual art, designed to provoke thought and action among viewers regarding the need for greater environmental responsibility.

This project allowed me to merge my passion for design with a cause I deeply care about while also incorporating elements of my cultural background into my work.

PROCESS

As part of this project on raising awareness about the impact of air pollution, I conducted extensive research on the subject, exploring its effects on both human health and the environment. My research involved delving into various case studies from countries severely impacted by air pollution, such as India, Beijing, and the Netherlands. Each of these locations provided unique insights into how air pollution is being addressed, both in terms of public health consequences and governmental initiatives to combat it.

After synthesizing the information from these case studies, I brainstormed five initial design concepts that could serve as both symbolic and functional warnings about the dangers of air pollution. These concepts ranged from wearable devices to artistic representations of environmental damage, each intended to create awareness and provoke thought among users.

To ensure that the final product resonated with the target audience, I conducted an online survey where I shared my five initial design ideas with a diverse group of participants. The survey provided valuable feedback on each concept’s visual appeal, symbolism, and effectiveness in communicating the message. Based on this feedback, I selected the elephant mask design as my final product.

The elephant mask, with the Earth held in its trunk, was the most well-received concept in the survey. Participants appreciated the cultural symbolism of the elephant and its strong association with protection and nature. Additionally, the visual representation of the Earth being cradled by the elephant amplified the message that air pollution is a global issue affecting all forms of life. This feedback-driven approach helped me refine and finalize the design, ensuring it was both impactful and meaningful to a wide audience.

DESIGN FEATURES & SIGNIFICANCE

A piece of design fiction that tries to draw attention to a current problem. The entire design is therefore centred on reducing air pollution, but some aspects have unique motivations and purposes.