We make things to express ourselves, share ideas, channel energy, manifest concepts, and visualize connections. Depending on our skills, the materials available, or the ones we imagine, we create different things. Here’s an exploration of why we make things and how technology plays a role in this creative process.
1. The Art of Knotting and Technological Testing:
For the past few months, I have been making knots. Using conductive threads, I knot sensors, resistors, microcontrollers, LEDs, and explore mechanical connections. This experimentation is inspired by Quipus—ancient Incan artifacts from the 15th century, used as complex, three-dimensional communication systems. They were tactile recording devices that could be felt and seen in the dark, showing that wearable technology is not a recent innovation.
2. The Journey from Philosophy to Technology:
Twenty years ago, after completing a master’s in philosophy, I wanted to make ideas physical. I aimed to create “philosophy machines” to communicate process and insight in an embodied way. Studying design and technology, I experimented with interactive video and microcontrollers. New tools opened new possibilities for expression. Fascinated by the invisible spectrum of infrared, I created jackets that communicate via infrared signals, chirping like crickets when they meet.
3. Non-verbal communication and Wearable Technology:
I explored non-verbal communication and the quest for the perfect other, as described in Plato’s Symposium. I made jackets that light up when people hug, showing the warmth and energy of a good hug. I also made sneakers that sound like high heels, challenging perceptions and showing how easily our minds can be tricked. These interventions aimed to change our understanding of space, connections, and material reality.
4. The Growth of Wearable Technology:
Wearable technology bridges the gap between communication systems and everyday experiences. Our clothes and accessories influence our interactions and self-perception. From pocket watches to Walkmans, wearable technology has historically altered our relationship with time and space. Even the zipper, once seen as a sign of moral decay, changed how we interact with clothing.
5. Textiles and Technology:
Textiles are packed with codes and signifiers. The first programmable machine was a Jacquard loom, and Incan Quipus had binary codes. My work with conductive fabrics and technology led me to explore the affordances of materials. The process of making revealed new possibilities, and solutions became as exciting as the ideas themselves. The tools and expression edged closer together, creating a “synesthetic materiality of ideas.”
Conclusion:
The things we make shape our thoughts, desires, and future creations. Wearable technology provides a unique space to explore communication systems and everyday experiences. By understanding the relationship between materials and ideas, we can control the narrative of technology and relationships. As we continue to innovate, we must ensure that technology humanizes our interactions and promotes values that benefit all.
FAQs:
1. Why do we make things?
We make things to express ourselves, share ideas, channel energy, and visualize connections. The process of creation is influenced by our skills, available materials, and the ideas we want to manifest.
2. What are Quipus?
Quipus are ancient Incan artifacts used as complex, three-dimensional communication systems. They were tactile recording devices that could be felt and seen in the dark, showcasing an early form of wearable technology.
3. How has wearable technology evolved?
Wearable technology has evolved from pocket watches and Walkmans to modern interactive devices. These innovations have changed our relationship with time, space, and communication, shaping our interactions and self-perception.
4. What is the significance of textiles in technology?
Textiles are embedded with codes and signifiers. The first programmable machine was a Jacquard loom, and Incan Quipus had binary codes. Exploring the affordances of materials and technology reveals new possibilities for expression.
5. How can we humanize technology?
To humanize technology, we must ensure it promotes values that benefit all and enhance our interactions. By controlling the narrative of technology and relationships, we can create a future where technology supports human experience and well-being.