Sowing Poetics: Natural Texture As Co-Designer
Yutian Qian
In today’s fast-paced and tech-centric urban environments, people are becoming increasingly detached from the natural
world. Design can play a role in creating more opportunities for direct, face-to-face interactions with nature. In this
thesis, I will explore design strategies for ecological kinship drawing on both phenomenology and historical studies of
urban landscapes. Integrating physical materials and textures from nature with design methodologies can help reintroduce
urbanites, especially New Yorkers, to novel ecological experiences. By creating sensory experiences, this thesis aims to
invite urbanites to reconnect with the natural world and thereby foster a “kinship ecology” between urbanites and urban
ecosystems.
My research began with ethnography, exploring different kinds of city parks, Elizabeth Garden and the High Line Park, as
research sites to collect information and observe the interaction between nature and urban life.
ROCK FAMILY —— AI Generated Font
I integrated natural textures and the English alphabet to create two typefaces, aiming to slow down the reader through the act of engaging with non-standard letterforms. This typographic experience invites a more mindful, sensory mode of reading, and to see conventional communication modes through the lense of non-human forms.
CATCH CATCH MOSS —— Handmade Font
Both typefaces seek to explore the mutual influence between kinship ecology and human well-being.
Personal Journey Book p1/4
With knowledge gained from ethnography, I designed a personal journey book that includes guides and patterns that allow users to focus on slowing down and taking “now time.” My hope is that these exercises will guide people to rediscover overlooked aspects of everyday life.
Personal Journey Book p2/4
In the era of electronic communication, people overlook the natural world of changes everyday.
Personal Journey Book p3/4
In this spring, as the flowers sway in the breeze, whether nestled in treetops or scattered across the ground, they dance like Aladdin’s magic carpet, filling the air with a fragrant aroma.
Personal Journey Book p4/4
The wind carries this scent as it brushes through your hair.