PROJECT IFESTUS

Introduction:

Project Ifestus is a team of artists and graphic designers who have collaborated and synthesized a product meant for people with motor disabilities. More specifically, our group of five aims at the design and productions of accessories that enhance both the fashion and capabilities of people who experience difficulties in their daily lives. Originally, Project Ifestus was found by leading member Kenny Polyzois, who began doing a fashion project in his university, and his idea to accompany a kimono style then evolved into this project idea. Through the study and presentation of the final product, he was chosen for the second Call for Project made by FRH and was organized on June 2021.

Our Logo:

The name of the project is inspired by the Greek god of the forge, Hephaestus; patron of the arts and crafts, but also a representative for people with disability, as he had a mobility issue himself in the myth, which Hera casted him off Mount Olympus for. Yet he thrived and earned his place as a god among the gods of Olympus. Hence forth, the design concept of the “belt n brace” was meant to be polished with ancient Greek or Roman style art, mainly the type we would see on pillars of temples and walls of a palace. The scheme would be closer to Hephaestus himself, portraying a hammer and/or an anvil or the fire pit of a forge.

The founding members:

Polyzois Kenny Anastasios (Leading member)

Arvanitellis Nikolas (Design & Modeling)

Nikas Lepouras Elias (Design & Public Relations)

Simeonidis Eustratios (Research & Development)

Secondary colleagues:

Maud Leibundgut (model for the “belt n brace”)

Voudouris Nikolaos (Research & Personnel Department)

Prototype Product:

The product presented is made for people who have movement limitation on their arms.

The Belt and Brace are meant to attach together in order to hold up the passive arm (unable to move) of the model (Madam Maud Leibundgut) around her waist area, in order for her to be able to use both her hands when needed for any task, which would be more convenient for her.

With the assistance of Ms. Maud Leibundgut, our team can test, experiment and review any design flaws of the product we are making. The current prototype aims to cover mainly her everyday needs. It is a product that could help many other individuals and we plan to focus on custom made production. That of course, only applies to the main design and idea since it shouldn’t be impossible to make a product to fit the needs of many people with motor disabilities.

For better view and analysis:

Sketch ideas prior to final design: