Inter rupt

This thesis investigates my operations as designer. It seeks new ways to extend areas of research and critical practice in public spaces, both physical and virtual. Within these spaces, we share experiences that define and divide group identities. Using a dialogic approach to activate interpretation of a social condition at hand, I ask not only of a viewer, but of myself: “How do we see ourselves here?” I disrupt superficial readings of these conditions, digging beneath patterned behaviors to call out and challenge displays of power defined by the sociological status quo. This approach functions to short circuit the patterns, instigating confusion, but also redirection and discovery, in order to reveal the tension, complexity and messiness within these sites. A counter-condition is created, eliciting empathy and a more profound experience.