The Future of Prosthetics
Goldsmiths, 2022
Disability inspiring Design
Design meets disability. Often when looking into prosthetics and their design, it is dominated by medical engineers, who are orientated around compensating for a disability as functionally as possible, and, as discreetly as possible. These flesh-coloured and miniaturised prosthetic replacements (hearing aids, glasses, or prosthetic limbs) send out the message that physical impediments are something to hide. Graham Pullin, author of Design meets Disability, specifically mentions eyewear - glasses are designed to correct poor eyesight, a mild form of disability. However glasses are no longer just a corrective object anymore but have become fashionable, an accessory. When looking into the realm of prosthetics I found incredible work in terms of experimental arms and legs, however very little in relation to breast removal surgery replacements. The options out there are very minimal, and it was something I wanted to explore. I believe the same can be done for prosthetics as with eyewear; a shift in perspective from corrective and hidden prosthetic breasts to fashionable ‘wearable’ items could be influential in removing the stigma around mastectomies in particular.
I want to emphasise that the final object I am presenting to you here is not what I consider ‘the perfect’ prosthetic breast in the slightest. It is more of a suggestion, if this is what I can create over a project of this duration and professionally, imagine what could be developed if there was more time and consideration to the matter - body morphic creations, architectural structures, bespoke designs. It isn’t a solution by any means, it’s a suggestion, planting a seed of curiosity in the viewer’s mind, and opening up that conversation. A breast replacement that still maintains functionality for everyday wear in shape and form, however is empowering and playful in its dealing and attachment to the body. No invisible magnetic systems or uncomfortable body glues, velvet threading and tartan linings. Combining sophistication and class with playful femininity, provocative meets sensitive, unique, bold colours, trimmings and detailing in buttons and attachments, paying as much attention to the interior embellishments, which only the wearer would feel, see and notice, as to the exterior appearance. An honest and empowering approach, with a purposeful lack of cosmetic coverup.
sketchbook
I want to emphasise that the final object I am presenting to you here is not what I consider ‘the perfect’ prosthetic breast in the slightest. It is more of a suggestion, if this is what I can create over a project of this duration and professionally, imagine what could be developed if there was more time and consideration to the matter - body morphic creations, architectural structures, bespoke designs. It isn’t a solution by any means, it’s a suggestion, planting a seed of curiosity in the viewer’s mind, and opening up that conversation. A breast replacement that still maintains functionality for everyday wear in shape and form, however is empowering and playful in its dealing and attachment to the body. No invisible magnetic systems or uncomfortable body glues, velvet threading and tartan linings. Combining sophistication and class with playful femininity, provocative meets sensitive, unique, bold colours, trimmings and detailing in buttons and attachments, paying as much attention to the interior embellishments, which only the wearer would feel, see and notice, as to the exterior appearance. An honest and empowering approach, with a purposeful lack of cosmetic coverup.
sketchbook