AirWear
by Daisy Imogen Bucklewebsite - instagram
Data is too-often communicated in a flat and unengaging way. We are so used to seeing poorly communicated graphs, diagrams and charts that can end up making the information they relate uninteresting – even when theinformation they may concern us on a deeply personal level.
Daisy observed this regrettable fact when they began researching air quality data. The figureswere drastic and urgently needed to be read and processed by those concerned. Yet the ways the numbers were communicated made it easy to overlook them.
Using their textile design skills, Daisy devised methods that people could use to visualisedata through knitting and sewing. They wanted to see how craft could bridge the gap between science and the general public by making data engaging and visually impactful. Their investigation questions the way air quality data is currently being communicated;instead of people simply reading or listening to information, Daisy’s work allows them to share the data by wearing it. Their research shows us that arts and crafts are important tools in owning the science that concerns our communities’ well-being.
Daisy observed this regrettable fact when they began researching air quality data. The figureswere drastic and urgently needed to be read and processed by those concerned. Yet the ways the numbers were communicated made it easy to overlook them.
Using their textile design skills, Daisy devised methods that people could use to visualisedata through knitting and sewing. They wanted to see how craft could bridge the gap between science and the general public by making data engaging and visually impactful. Their investigation questions the way air quality data is currently being communicated;instead of people simply reading or listening to information, Daisy’s work allows them to share the data by wearing it. Their research shows us that arts and crafts are important tools in owning the science that concerns our communities’ well-being.
Creative Proposition: AirWear
DIY activism / Online resources / Air quality visualisation toolkitYarns, cotton thread, needles, scissors, fabric, fabric ink and paint
My project has culminated in an online resource for developing and running workshops. These consist of the project website (click) and Instagram (click).
These online resources are free and open to people of all skills and abilities. Teaching and education are the best methods of reaching individuals and groups to inform them of issues such as air quality. However, I wished to approach it in a constructive, productive and more artistic way.
The whole idea of connecting people with the issues raised by climate change using craft and textiles is one that I have been developing for over a year now. It has been heightened by the pandemic in that we have seen how human changes can significantly impact the natural world and our health – for better or worse. We have also seen a rise in the number of people turning to craft and textiles for comfort or pleasure; thus it is a good method to broach difficult and worrying topics such as climate change.
Community resilience through material language, crafting a narrative about local air quality.
My project was looking at air quality data and how to portray and teach people about air quality in a new and creative way. I did not think that the current graphs and posters were impactful for some. Creating an experience for people to get involved with would be a good way to go forward, promoting a way for people to be creative in a nurturing and community-led environment.
How could I use my textiles design skills to encourage people to take an interest in their local air quality?
The pandemic meant that my focus shifted from me making things to engaging and encouraging others and members of the public to make their face masks and scarves to reflect the air quality in their area. This way, a dialogue could be created without words being needed.
How could I design a system which crossed boundaries and showed people they could use craft skills to encourage an interest in the invisible?
Making social and online content meant it could be more accessible and can connect people across the UK with one another. New groups can be built in various communities online and in person. Education through craft and science and knowledge being more accessible for everyday people is key. I hope people will engage with the project and concept and start their own Airwear groups and sessions. The point is for people to use the project as a tool to initiate their conversations and network within groups across the UK and beyond, building resilience and collaborative actions. I have developed a system that enables people to explore the data through textiles. I have created the tools, links to air quality data and a work pack anyone can access. I encourage people to engage with data themselves and share this knowledge through workshops or wearing their crafted items out and about.
These online resources are free and open to people of all skills and abilities. Teaching and education are the best methods of reaching individuals and groups to inform them of issues such as air quality. However, I wished to approach it in a constructive, productive and more artistic way.
The whole idea of connecting people with the issues raised by climate change using craft and textiles is one that I have been developing for over a year now. It has been heightened by the pandemic in that we have seen how human changes can significantly impact the natural world and our health – for better or worse. We have also seen a rise in the number of people turning to craft and textiles for comfort or pleasure; thus it is a good method to broach difficult and worrying topics such as climate change.
Community resilience through material language, crafting a narrative about local air quality.
My project was looking at air quality data and how to portray and teach people about air quality in a new and creative way. I did not think that the current graphs and posters were impactful for some. Creating an experience for people to get involved with would be a good way to go forward, promoting a way for people to be creative in a nurturing and community-led environment.
How could I use my textiles design skills to encourage people to take an interest in their local air quality?
The pandemic meant that my focus shifted from me making things to engaging and encouraging others and members of the public to make their face masks and scarves to reflect the air quality in their area. This way, a dialogue could be created without words being needed.
How could I design a system which crossed boundaries and showed people they could use craft skills to encourage an interest in the invisible?
Making social and online content meant it could be more accessible and can connect people across the UK with one another. New groups can be built in various communities online and in person. Education through craft and science and knowledge being more accessible for everyday people is key. I hope people will engage with the project and concept and start their own Airwear groups and sessions. The point is for people to use the project as a tool to initiate their conversations and network within groups across the UK and beyond, building resilience and collaborative actions. I have developed a system that enables people to explore the data through textiles. I have created the tools, links to air quality data and a work pack anyone can access. I encourage people to engage with data themselves and share this knowledge through workshops or wearing their crafted items out and about.
