social issue clock: exploit
research, three dimensional realization, photography
discipline
adobe illustrator, adobe photoshop
softwares
As part of the Visual Communication Program at Arizona State University, our senior thesis is heavily based on a social issue we feel is in need of advocacy. The first part consists of a clock that aims at communicating a single message or statistic based on our social issue, while still maintaining the integrity of a functioning clock with an accurate display of time. After conducting research on numerous social issues critically affecting communities, I began to uncover the long history of systematic exploitation and abuse that incarcerated workers face at the hands of the U.S. prison system and felt a responsibility to inform others.
design Brief
The first challenge was visualizing an abstract time code. I tested out numerous iterations that best articulated the economic relationship and dependency that exists between the United States economy and its prison system, resulting in the mistreatment and exploitation of incarcerated workers all over the nation. Based on my research and iterations, I chose the word “exploit” to showcase the direct result of this relationship.
design process
I began with wooden prototypes to test each iteration. Once the exact design was solidified, I laser-cut the clock pieces, testing out various materials along the way. The biggest challenge that came with designing a hollowed-out clock was the weight distribution. The clock center consists of multiple stacked moving parts with no base to lean upon. This meant the weight of the materials couldn’t interfere with the clock mechanisms.
