Detailed Research and Creative Development Process :
In the early stages of this project, I conducted an in-depth study of Monomi Ohno’s cardboard art, particularly focusing on how she uses cardboard, an ordinary material, to create intricate and expressive sculptures. Inspired by this, I decided to choose a common everyday object—a pot—as my design subject. I started from the initial concept and gradually explored the plasticity and structural characteristics of cardboard. During this process, I consulted relevant design materials and used visual research methods such as sketching, prototyping, and material testing to develop and validate my design ideas.
I first drew various design schemes for the pot in my sketchbook and analyzed the material adaptation for each design, paying particular attention to how cardboard would affect the shape and function of the pot. I also discussed my design ideas with friends and family, gathered their feedback, and adjusted my design based on this input. Subsequently, I created an initial cardboard pot prototype and discovered issues with the strength and workability of the cardboard during the actual making process. These findings prompted me to optimize the structure in the subsequent design.
Evidence of Trying New Methods to Solve Problems and Develop Creative Ideas:
During the implementation of the project, I tried various new methods to address the technical challenges encountered. The strength of the cardboard is relatively weak, making it prone to bending and deformation, which posed difficulties in structural design. To solve this issue, I adopted a method of layering the cardboard to increase the material’s thickness and strength. Additionally, I explored using different types of glue and connection techniques to ensure a solid bond between the components. Ultimately, through these new methods, I successfully resolved the technical challenges posed by the cardboard material and created a cardboard pot that was satisfactory in both appearance and structure.
Asking Meaningful Questions to Develop Innovative Solutions:
During the creative development process, I raised several key questions to guide my design direction. For example, I asked myself, “How does the fragility of cardboard affect the traditional use and meaning of the pot?” and “How can I challenge the audience’s expectations of the pot through material selection?” These questions helped me delve deeper into the uniqueness of cardboard as a material and drove me to seek innovative design solutions.
I also explored the issue of environmental sustainability, considering how to use recycled cardboard to reduce environmental impact. Through this process, I began to focus on the relationship between design and ecological responsibility. The questions raised not only helped me clarify my design goals but also encouraged continuous reflection and adjustment during the creative process, leading to a work that is both artistically valuable and socially meaningful.
Written Work Includes Evidence of Depth of Understanding and Articulation of Ideas:
In this project, I focused not only on the superficial effects of design but also on deeply exploring the relationship between material, form, and function. I critically examined the design concept of “form follows function” and deliberately chose to challenge this principle by using a material that contradicts it. By using fragile, perishable cardboard to create a pot, I aimed to provoke the audience’s reconsideration of the connection between an object’s purpose and the materials used to create it.
Throughout the process, I recognized that cardboard carries many implicit meanings. It is often seen as a low-value, temporary material, in stark contrast to the durability and high value of metals or ceramics. By applying this material to an object traditionally associated with sturdiness and durability (such as a pot), I sought to disrupt the preconceived associations between materials and their intended uses, thereby revealing our habitual thinking about objects.
Furthermore, during the creative process, I gained a deeper understanding of the physical properties of cardboard. The structural characteristics of cardboard required careful consideration of how weight and pressure would be distributed in the design and construction phases, which deepened my understanding of how material selection profoundly impacts design outcomes. Additionally, by applying unconventional materials in this way, I expressed my concern for environmental issues, advocating for sustainable use of materials through innovative design.
I also drew inspiration from Monomi Ohno’s art, where she creates stunning works from ordinary cardboard, redefining our perception of everyday materials. Her work taught me that materials themselves can be powerful tools of expression, not merely means to achieve functionality.
This is her media：
https://www.instagram.com/monamincb/
And some works:
What Your Idea Was and How You Decided on Its Material/s
My idea was to create a small pot using cardboard, inspired by the work of Monomi Ohno, a Japanese artist known for her intricate cardboard sculptures. Like Ohno, I wanted to explore the potential of cardboard as a versatile and expressive material, transforming something ordinary and often discarded into an object of art. The choice of cardboard was deliberate, aiming to echo Ohno’s approach of repurposing a common, accessible material to create something that challenges traditional perceptions.
How the Materials Change or Subvert the Meaning of Your Design
Using cardboard changes the traditional meaning of a pot by introducing a sense of fragility and impermanence. Normally, pots are made from durable materials like clay or metal, but by using cardboard, the design subverts the expectation of durability and longevity. This choice reflects a broader commentary on the temporary nature of many of our creations and the potential for everyday materials to be elevated into something meaningful. The cardboard also brings an element of surprise, as it is not typically associated with lasting, functional objects, much like Ohno’s work, which often surprises and delights through its unexpected medium.
What You Discovered During the Process
During the process, I discovered that cardboard is both challenging and rewarding to work with. It requires careful consideration of structure and support, as it lacks the inherent strength of more traditional materials. However, this also allowed for creative problem-solving and innovation, much like the way Monomi Ohno approaches her art. I learned that even the most mundane materials can be transformed with enough creativity and attention to detail. The flexibility of cardboard provided opportunities for experimentation in shaping the pot, which was a liberating experience.
What or Who Inspired the Design
The design was directly inspired by Monomi Ohno, whose work with cardboard has redefined how we view this common material. Ohno’s ability to create complex and detailed sculptures from cardboard encouraged me to explore the material’s possibilities in my own work. Her approach to art—turning something ordinary into something extraordinary—resonated deeply with me and guided the direction of my project.
What Artist or Designer You Can Think of Who Practices Social Responsibility in Their Work
Monomi Ohno herself can be seen as an artist who practices social responsibility in her work. By using recycled cardboard, she not only creates stunning art but also promotes the idea of sustainability and reusability. Her work challenges the throwaway culture by demonstrating that even the most overlooked materials can be used to create something beautiful and valuable. This aligns with the growing movement in design and art that emphasizes environmental consciousness and the responsible use of resources.
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