Fundamentals to “The Tree Storage”
This project is a speculative design experiment within the field of More-Than-Human Design. It challenges the anthropocentric perspective, exploring alternative design approaches. While speculative by nature, More-Than-Human Design was envisioned as a tool for creating new interactions. The project is divided into two main areas: research, culminating in a manifesto, and the design and prototyping of a potential exhibition. It was selected for inclusion in a 4TU blog article during Dutch Design Week.
Manifesto and fundamentals
The manifesto consists of interwoven layers where, as humans, we primarily recognize the interconnectedness of humans, nature, and technology. We acknowledge anthropocentrism but strive not to adopt it, designing with these principles in mind without seeing them as limitations. Instead, we believe in a collaborative reality.
Experiments
The project explores a speculative design concept in which memories and data, such as photos, are stored in trees, revealing the signs of time, nature, and weather through their form.
To simulate the uploading of personal photos, the exhibition was designed as a full experience: visitors would take photos, upload them to the storage, let time pass, and then return to check on them.
The tree storage was therefore a means to explore how humans value more-than-human elements. It raises the question: do their opinions change when something they own is affected by external forces?
Ours is not just ours, and even when affected, it can still be beautiful.