‘Volker’

Jessica Bruni

April / April - 2018

Hochschule der Bildenden Künste Saar

Description

It is a stackable stool with character, made from waste materials provided by local companies. It is manufactured by long-term unemployed people.

What is the Topic?

The topic of my thesis was 'Upcycling and social work as criteria of product design'. The product provides a useful function to industrial waste and gives dignity and public recognition to the work of the long-term unemployed.

Why does it look like this?

The used waste material is shown on purpose. It's surface was sanded and treated with water-diluted wood stain. The formal language is deliberately a bit coarse, as it is an allusion to the mostly amateur craftsmen.

What is special?

The use of local waste materials and it's manufacture in cooperation with a non-profit employment company make this product special.

What is new?

It may be seen as a new approach for a designer to commit oneself to a social and environmental responsibility.