Do Not Hit Refresh: Embracing Obstructions in Design

Description

Following the rules does not necessarily equate to being disciplined. In the practice of design, however, rules are a means of finding discipline-a tool for creativity. Another word for "rule" is "obstruction," as in "The Five Obstructions," the 2003 film by Lars von Trier. The film is a meditation on creative renewal and documents von Trier's challenge to his friend and mentor, Jørgen Leth: to remake his own film, "The Perfect Human," five different ways-each time following a different obstruction. I screen this film in my design courses to help expose students to the hidden freedom found in limitations. In this presentation, I will micro-teach a challenging (yet fun) method for experimental problem-solving in the design studio. This technique uses a web-based "obstruction generator" programmed by fellow obstructionist and Assistant Professor of Design at RIT, Mitch Goldstein. It provides the user with a set of uncommon, lighthearted, and sometimes confusing obstructions that can be used as starting points for unique design explorations. This digital tool can be quickly incorporated into all levels of design curricula and has been described as "liberating" by students who are either hesitant to move beyond their first idea, or even worse, still waiting for it. This presentation will explore the tension between digital and analog methods of design and will focus on strategies for preparing students for an exciting, yet uncertain, future.

Interaction

Interaction will be encouraged by allowing members of the audience to choose their own set of obstructions and then briefly describe how they might respond in kind to a common design prompt.

Takeaway

Participants will engage in a highly experimental design-thinking activity that sparks creative renewal by using non-traditional problem-solving techniques. Takeaways will include a set of curricular resources that will assist participants who wish to incorporate this design activity into their own courses.

Outcomes

The outcomes of the session will inform my ongoing strategic analysis of incorporating experimental research methodologies into foundational design courses.