Ima. Crafting as a designer’s exploration through Japanese aesthetics and Finnish minimalism
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School of Arts, Design and Architecture |
Master's thesis
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Date
2021
Department
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Mcode
Degree programme
Master’s Programme in Interior Architecture
Language
en
Pages
98
Series
Abstract
At present, the world we are in is continuously changing, with us rushing after it. Unconsciously, we are adapting to the standards of constant productivity, success and mass consumerism that characterize modern society at the expense of physical and mental well-being. Thus, little consideration is given to mindfulness and self-care that, instead, restore our relationship with the natural environment. The purpose of this thesis is to draw attention to the value of the present moment through the design of a wooden piece of furniture, which embodies Japanese aesthetic sensibilities and Finnish minimalism. This combination results in the production of a lounge chair that expresses its unassuming nature through sincerity. Following the wabi-sabi aesthetic, which finds beauty in the impermanence of life and the subtlest details, the research consists of a juxtaposition between the philosophical theory and practical design development. The exploration is grounded on a “learning by doing” method, which involves awareness of the natural material and its constraints during the whole experimental design journey. The bodily sensations perceived while crafting the physical product emerge in a conscious understanding of the responsibilities designers bear in taking decisions while designing. These can lead to expected or unexpected outcomes: here stands the Japanese wisdom of accepting the changes and trusting the process. Acknowledging the tools and materials as part of the art makes the designer reflect on the significant relationship that bonds him/her to the craft piece. Thus, he/she will be apt to cherish every moment, not only focusing on the final result. Although the lounge chair does not want to establish its place in an already saturated furniture market, it aims to let the designer and the user realize the importance of life small nuances: the former while crafting the furniture, the latter while lounging on it. The chair appears simple in shape, the kind of simplicity to be admired from the beauty of everyday things. Yet, the imperceptible details and imperfections of the wood, in its colour or grain, are evidence of the tree’s life and are vulnerable to the changes that will occur over time. Taking an instant to pause from the buzz of everyday life and care for the little moments foster the nourishment of our physical and mental health. Therefore, the designer will need to be conscious of the surrounding environment and situation, making choices that are longing for a re-connection with nature and the self. That time is now. Ima.Description
Supervisor
Kokkonen, VilleThesis advisor
Yoshida, SatoshiKeywords
Japanese aesthetic, wabi-sabi, lounge chair, furniture design, wood craft, Finnish minimalism