01. Project Inspirations

1.1 Context：

The year is 2124, and Shanghai stands as a beacon of technological advancement. New media and technology have revolutionized the city, enhancing everyday life with breathtaking innovations. However, this progress brings challenge: 

Connection Paradox: As people increasingly rely on digital interactions and virtual experiences, face-to-face communication and real-world relationships are suffering. The sense of community and interpersonal bonds that once held society together are weakening. Social isolation is on the rise, and many citizens feel disconnected from their neighbors and even their families, despite being constantly "connected" online.

1.2 Inspirations

Our idea starts with building a bridge between individuals that helps communicate emotion. We would like it to be off-line, something wearable, which could promote the physical interaction: Suit? Belt? or Necklace?

There's a Chinese saying：'十指连心', which means fingers are connected to heart. Inspired by this, we decided to make a Glove, that could connect people's heart thought the touch of fingertips. 

02. What is this Project 

03. The Making Process

Material used: Paper jam, cotton thread, glue, paint

04. Successes and Failures

4.1 What Went Right?

We had a clear routine that guided us through each stage of our project, starting from brainstorming the initial idea, to drafting plans, and finally constructing the glove with cardboard. This structured approach allowed us to stay focused and make steady progress. The biggest success was how organized we were throughout the process, taking each step methodically, which prevented confusion and ensured everyone was on the same page. By staying organized, we also managed to balance creativity with practicality, producing a functional and thought-out design.

4.2 Challenges and How We Overcame Them

Initially, we had considered using a real glove and attaching cardboard pieces to it, but we quickly realized that this would make the project too simple and less engaging. We wanted something more unique that would challenge us while adding more depth to the design. To address this, we conducted research on similar art projects and interactive installations. The research helped us realize that creating a glove entirely out of cardboard would allow for more creativity in structure and interaction. We also consulted with our professor, who provided us with valuable insights that guided us toward refining our concept. Through this combined effort, we managed to elevate the project beyond the initial simplicity.

05. Lessons Learned and Takeaway

5.1 Lesson Learned

The most significant lesson I took away from this experience is that design concepts and planning do not always translate perfectly into reality. There are often unexpected challenges that arise during the execution phase. What’s important is learning to slow down, assess the problem, and then work through it step by step. I realized that instead of being discouraged by setbacks, they can actually serve as opportunities for inspiration and improvement. These challenges pushed us to think more creatively and adapt, leading to a better outcome than what we initially envisioned.

5.2 Some Changes I Might Make

After reflection and suggestions given by the professors and the class. There're a few things that we'd love to change.

1. Change the container from a coffee box to a more decorated and formal one.

2. Make it more stylish and desined comparing to the 3 parts we have now.

3. Make the fuction more clear and detailed.

06. Critical analysis and Assessment of '坐'

I think this group did a really great job, they used Barbie dolls and gave us a cute, innovative and thoughtful performance. 

We're all desining the product tackling the first challenge, which is the Connection Paradox. And I see the similarity here that we're both thinking improving social connection though enhancing physical interaction. 

The suggestion I would give is that: There's possibility to build an actual large one. And it would be so fun if we can have that performance in person.

08. Team Dynamic & Collaboration

We need to improve our collaboration by fostering better communication, setting clearer deadlines, and showing more respect for each other's work and effort. I believe that with these adjustments, we will all grow significantly in our next project. 😀