Fabric Animals

AI and the Future of Human-Object Dynamics

As AI continues to advance, concerns arise about a future where objects gain autonomy, reversing the established human-object power dynamic. This theme, echoed in the works of science fiction authors like Philip K. Dick and Isaac Asimov, envisions dystopian worlds where the line between living and non-living blurs. This project draws on these concepts, positioning objects as active participants in a new dynamic where human control is not the focus.

Rethinking Non-Anthropocentric Philosophy

Rejecting the notion that the world revolves around humans, this research embraces non-anthropocentric views. Objects, whether animate or inanimate, possess their own existence and agency, independent of human perception. According to Object-Oriented Ontology (OOO), all entities share equal status in the world, interacting in ways that do not prioritize human experience.

Exploring Material Agency in Garment Design and The Interplay of Body, Clothing, and Society

The core of this project is the exploration of material intentionality. Magnets embedded in garments allow these materials to move autonomously, creating unique, unpredictable interactions. The design process resulted in three distinct garments, each with varying magnetic properties, leading to different user experiences. Inspired by the natural behaviors of corals, Fabric Animals illustrates how garments can exhibit agency, much like living organisms that react and adapt to their environment. Clothing, as an extension of the body, plays a crucial role in non-verbal communication and self-expression. This project examines how relinquishing control over garments creates new forms of interaction, particularly in the realm of physical expression. These interactions were analyzed through user testing, involving a diverse audience and performance artists, revealing the complex relationship between body, clothing, and society.