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EXPERIMENTAL FORMS
A real deer antler was transformed into an object that affords an engaging tactile experience
THE GOAL
FORMING
The objective here was to explore the perceived design language of objects that communicate with us to elicit interaction. We were to use our hands to craft an object compels someone to pick it up.
WRAPPING
The second stage of this project entailed us wrapping a block with colored threads to pay homage to a being on the endangered species list. The block was to then serve as a resting pad for the antler.
CONSTRAINTS
It was imperative that we recognize and respect the natural essence of the antler and keep the transformed object in the same image. It was stressed upon us that we do not merely use the deer antler as a source of the material.
THE ORIGINAL ANTLER
FORM
The shape and appearance of the antler instantly attract our attention and evoke emotions of intricacy and power simultaneously. Designed by nature to serve as an instrument of sexual attraction and a weapon, this natural object is purposed to inspire strong feelings to allure and fear.
MATERIAL
An extension of the deer's skull, these antlers are made of bone. Bone provides a tough surface with the entire structure being afforded the ability to flex. While this made for a challenging material to shape by hand, it was certainly a very engaging material that inspired the expression of my imagination.
CONCEPT ONE
CONCEPT TWO
CONCEPT THREE
IDEATION
CONCEPT ONE
Explores the implementation of a 'double undercut' with one strong character line to create sharp shadows and a weaker line to cause subtle shadows.
CONCEPT TWO
Use sharp edges and smooth continuous surfaces to emphasize the tension on the surface of the material. Prongs are thinned to enhance the delicacy of the structure.
CONCEPT THREE
Employ the use of a circular cross-sectional shape to inform the antler with uniformity. Sharp prongs serve as a contrast to the softer rounded body.
FINAL CONCEPT
Concept Two was finally selected as the primary design language. However, while shaping the antler, I began to let the antler's natural shape guide my hand which helped inform a new surface that I had not planned for. Here, I was truly able to experiment with the form.
Real Object Photos
THE BLOCK
THE BENGAL TIGER
A native of the Indian peninsula, this majestic beast is famed for its power, agility and sheer ruthlessness. Considered by the ignorant as a trophy, this species was hunted and captured leading it finding an unfortunate home on the endangered list. At fewer than 2,500 individuals, this is indeed a sad story about the sinister impact that humans have had on this planet.
Real Object Photos
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