As stated during Justin’s introduction to the hiCraft research project, “craft practices often draw on concepts of subjectivity, personalisation/bespokeness, localism, embodiment, provenance, authenticity, and care”. Several of these key aspects were explored through the craft commission I created for Craftspace’s national touring exhibition We Are Commoners and which were discussed by members of the research community that evolved alongside it, which included Justin. The series of material samples and jewellery I created were produced by combining food waste with organic materials gathered or gleaned from local common land. The wearables presented an alternative future for costume/high street jewellery, in the creation of quick pieces, akin to the daisy chain, which could be worn once or twice before being returned to the land to biodegrade.
It’s exciting to have the chance to explore the internet of things (IoT) through the lens of craft, as well as the project presenting a challenge to consider the somewhat daunting digital as ‘just another tool in the toolbox’. It was inspiring to be introduced to the work of the other commissioned craft makers, Sean and Nicola, as well as hearing and experiencing examples of IoT projects from members of the team, such as Jayne Wallace’s ‘Blossom’, and Bill Gaver and Andy Boucher’s twirling Flutter By machines, both of which had eye-catching, beautifully subtle, sensitively considered kinetic mechanical outputs.
It’s exciting to have the chance to explore the internet of things (IoT) through the lens of craft, as well as the project presenting a challenge to consider the somewhat daunting digital as ‘just another tool in the toolbox’. It was inspiring to be introduced to the work of the other commissioned craft makers, Sean and Nicola, as well as hearing and experiencing examples of IoT projects from members of the team, such as Jayne Wallace’s ‘Blossom’, and Bill Gaver and Andy Boucher’s twirling Flutter By machines, both of which had eye-catching, beautifully subtle, sensitively considered kinetic mechanical outputs.
More inspiration was to come during the following day at The Sill, with Phil Heslop speaking about his ‘Phil-harmonic’ project and introducing us to a range of digital components. We gained a feel for what may be possible/achievable and also noted which of the components we felt most drawn to. The moisture sensor was top of my list, as I could clearly see how this related to the organic materials I enjoy working with, as well as the body, the site/context relating to the wearable outcomes I produce. Also of interest was the ‘oldie but a goodie’ accelerometer/gyroscope sensor to capture movement; ‘metal touch’ the touch sensor where the metal/carbon (diamond?!) material acts as an electrical conductor switch; ‘Tap module’ which senses vibration and taps, which could capture making processes such as forging and planishing (types of hammering techniques/processes). Frustratingly, sensory aspects I usually find important in informing my craft practice, such as smell and taste, cannot be easily detected digitally, but it’s good sometimes to have limitations to work within.
Visual inspiration is key in helping kick-start my creative process and I was delighted to have the opportunity to walk along Hadrian’s Wall, photographing textures both in the landscape and underfoot. Walking really helped me to digest the information we’d received, as we had the chance to reflected on the IoT and discussed initial ideas together as we immersed ourselves in impressive views. Where possible, I prefer to walk with a weighted backpack, as it helps provide a greater sense of grounding. I collected some small logs that looked like they could be ash, which had been fairly recently cut beside the path, continuing my compulsive collecting/gleaning habits. Since returning from the launch event, I have started gathering local sources of green wood found on my walks again, gleaning only from trees that have fallen naturally in the wind and that had to be cleared from paths. The moisture and scent you experience when working with green wood is such a pleasure, heightening the sensory experience of working with wood. I’m also keen to get started with the introductory Arduino kit, to begin developing ideas and test the moisture sensor as I process the green wood and it begins to dry out.