Subjective Objects

Transforming everyday objects as narrators reveals insights into daily life

This project explores the transformation of everyday objects into life-size, wearable experiences, reimagining them as visible and interactive guardians during the COVID-19 era. It aims to redefine our interaction with the mundane, turning confinement into a space of creativity and joy. By elevating these objects, the project challenges design norms, proposing that our surroundings hold untapped potential to inspire resilience and a fresh perspective on life's challenges.

Client

Parsons Thesis 2020 (Featured in i-D, Google Arts & Culture)

Role

VR/AR Concept Dev Fashion Designer Digital Designer

Industries

Fashion / System Design

Timeline

Dec 2019 - May 2020

Overview

OMTOU transformed from a city exploration app with mystery locations to OMTOU V2, which uses user-recorded sounds to create unique, curiosity-driven urban experiences.

Inspiration

I view wearables as a profoundly versatile and innovative platform, rich with endless possibilities across varied contexts. Deeply connected to the human form, they offer a unique avenue for expression, just like those familiar objects that scattered around our living spaces that shape our sense of intimacy and belonging.

What if ...

I understand that people may not want to dress unconventionally every day, just as earlier generations were skeptical about cars, preferring faster horses instead. However, I want to introduce a thought-provoking idea:

Has any mug designer truly comprehended the experience of being a mug? Imagine if we could see the world through the perspective of the everyday objects we use. In these interactions, would we discover a deeper connection to ourselves or develop a more profound understanding of the objects?

Secondary Research

Research shows that Americans typically spend 90% of their time indoors, a figure that has risen due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This increase affects lifestyles and self-perception, highlighting the significant role that our indoor environments—such as home layout and personal objects—have in reflecting and shaping our thoughts, feelings, and worldviews.

Objects as Wearables

Looking around in my limited surrounding, I selected a coffee mug, a sponge, and a pair of scissors—everyday items—as my main "partners" in creation. For them to be considered as wearables:

I created VR scenes to mimic the viewpoints of everyday objects and designed garments inspired by these objects' materials for wearers to experience this new perspective.

I crafted a garment using sponge material to amplify the sensory experience due to its distinct texture where it get interesting puffy patterns every time it touches liquid.

A Digital Experience

Full Experience / Products

To experiment with the wearables, I applied liquid to the sponge and inside the mug, enhancing their textures and creating a unique, intense experience for those wearing these object-inspired items.

Enhancement - Projection Mapping

A Digital Experience

To also enhance the vibrancy of these "objects" beyond mere neutral colors, I utilized a Lightform projector to redefine their external appearance, adding dynamic elements. This approach not only revitalizes the objects but also opens up possibilities for personalizing everyday items with a unique touch. -AR Projection (Made with @ Lightform)

Full Experience / Products

After the photo shoot with my friend, I realized my desire for more interaction between my creations and others. However, due to COVID restrictions, I adapted by developing 3D renderings of the objects, which eventually they can turned into filters. This allowed others to virtually place and view the clothing in their own living spaces, aligning more closely with my aim to highlight the significance of everyday objects in our environments. -Instagram Filter (Made with @ SparkAR)

To experiment with the wearables, I applied liquid to the sponge and inside the mug, enhancing their textures and creating a unique, intense experience for those wearing these object-inspired items. To also enhance the vibrancy of these "objects" beyond mere neutral colors, I utilized a Lightform projector to redefine their external appearance, adding dynamic elements. This approach not only revitalizes the objects but also opens up possibilities for personalizing everyday items with a unique touch. -AR Projection (Made with @ Lightform)