Design with others
Last updated
Last updated
This session, led by Dr. Marta Delatte, introduced the concept of design justice, focusing on creating equitable design practices through an intersectional feminist framework. We examined how universalist design often excludes marginalized groups and explored design as language using the original set of emojis, analyzing how they reflect cultural biases like racism and colonial perspectives. Drawing on J.L. Austin's speech-act theory, we discussed the impact of design choices and addressed the ethical issues in data extraction and the lack of reflexivity in ethnographic methods.
Dr. Patricia Hill Collins’ matrix of domination provided a lens to analyze power structures in design across four domains: structural, hegemonic, disciplinary, and interpersonal. The session concluded with a case study exercise where we applied these ideas to real-world interventions using the matrix of domination.
The session on the topic of otherness, presented by Laura Benitez, focused on the concept of "the Other" and its profound influence on contemporary philosophical, social, and ethical thought. In the first part, we examined how the notion of the "Other" is constructed and experienced, as well as its role in shaping identity, power dynamics, and cultural narratives.
The discussion highlighted the ethics of alterity, exploring how we define and engage with those perceived as different from ourselves. This examination revealed the inherent biases and assumptions in our perspectives, challenging us to consider how "othering" perpetuates exclusion and inequality. One key reflection was the importance of recognizing "the Other" not as a distant or opposing figure, but as a relational concept that invites dialogue, understanding, and accountability in our interactions and design processes.
By reframing the way we approach the "Other," the session encouraged us to foster ethical practices that prioritize inclusivity and mutual respect.
In the second part of the session, we visited Salamina, a shared workspace in an industrial building in L’Hospitalet, where we explored the work of eemeemee (Enclave Micopirata Mutante). This collective focuses on creating a community network to share knowledge and processes around DIWO (Do It With Others) mycology. Their projects span various applications, from fostering food sovereignty and developing tools for bioremediation to exploring ecological and interspecies relationships and hierarchies.
While I found the visit interesting, particularly in how it connects biology and art, I struggled to fully engage with their work or envision myself contributing to their projects. Their highly artistic and experimental approach felt somewhat distant from my own perspective, making it challenging to relate to their methods and goals. However, it was inspiring to see how they merge creativity with ecological purpose to address critical issues in innovative ways.
The session with Laura Benítez on agency and situated epistemologies was both fascinating and highly constructive. It delved into critical concepts from contemporary philosophy, social theory, and feminist science studies to rethink agency not as an individual trait but as a relational and interconnected phenomenon. By focusing on how human and non-human entities interact within dynamic systems, the session challenged traditional notions of autonomy and emphasized the importance of networks and intra-actions.
This shift in perspective highlighted the ethical and epistemological complexities of understanding agency in a shared world. I found this approach particularly enriching, as it underscored the interconnectedness of actions and the need to consider broader contexts and relationships when addressing contemporary challenges. The session provided valuable insights into how we might rethink responsibility, collaboration, and influence in more holistic and inclusive ways.
In the afternoon, we visited the Mutan Monkey project, an inspiring space dedicated to sound research and experimentation. Founded in 2018 in Barcelona’s Horta neighborhood, Mutan Monkey was built collectively through DIY/DIT practices by Mutan Monkey Instruments and the musical collective Ojalá Este Mi Bici. The space operates as a cultural association focusing on electronics and electroacoustics, promoting collaborative self-management and knowledge exchange.
I found the visit particularly interesting, as it showcased how the collective creates opportunities for exploring alternative ways of generating music and experimental sound. The emphasis on innovation and collaboration made the space feel vibrant and dynamic, highlighting the potential of collective efforts to push the boundaries of sound and music creation. This visit was a great example of how shared spaces can foster creativity and build unique communities around experimental practices.
The session with Laura Benítez on Beyond Local Territories explored the concepts of territoriality and third spaces, offering a broader perspective on how communities and collaboration are formed. Moving beyond the simple local-global dichotomy, the session emphasized that meaningful connections and collective efforts can emerge across diverse and dispersed contexts, not just within shared physical territories.
Through the examination of various projects and ideas, we were encouraged to think about designing with others in ways that transcend geographical boundaries. I found this session particularly insightful, as it highlighted the importance of fostering inclusive and collaborative practices that adapt to interconnected and fluid networks, expanding the potential for community-driven design on a global scale.
In the second part of the session, we had the opportunity to attend a presentation by BeAnotherLab, a collective working at the intersection of art, science, and technology. Their approach challenges traditional hierarchies between these fields, treating them as overlapping and complementary ways of understanding the world. As a not-for-profit cultural association based in Barcelona, BeAnotherLab licenses its innovations under Creative Commons, reflecting their commitment to accessibility and collaboration.
Their action-research methodology focuses on creating tools and methods to interface with differences, always tailored to specific contexts. I found the presentation particularly engaging, as it demonstrated how art and technology can be used to foster empathy and connection across diverse perspectives. Their focus on bridging gaps and facilitating dialogue through creative and interdisciplinary practices was both inspiring and thought-provoking.
