FMP: initial research

I decided to base my research on Jess Thom's response to freedom: "My wheelchair and my tics are not the things that disable me. The thing that disables me is the inaccessible environment".

Initially I wanted to focus on the inaccessible environment in terms of perception. I thought it would be more appropriate to start my research literally by looking at just how efficient step free accessibility is today. Upon first glance, based on the key, one would assume that 

it is highly efficient as it indicates that the majority of stations in the UK are step free. Out of curiosity, I zoomed in to the map to see what stations did not have step free access. To my surprise, I realised that the map was manipulated in terms of the use of colour to convey the information in a way that supports the idea that the majority of stations are step free access. 


This inspired me to consider colour as a primary method of communication as it is evident how important it can be. To inform this research, I decided to make contextual references to designers that used colour in their work in new/interesting ways.

Patrick Thomas 

The Hang up gallery

           

                                                

In relation to my project, I feel this exhibition has informed my design process as it inspired me to use colour in more interesting ways as I usually restrict my colour palette. Patrick Thomas uses colour in a visually interesting manner which isn't obvious in regards to the subject matter. (Valentine's day/love)  For my final outcome, it would be interesting to incorporate this approach to my work.

Manuel Espinosa 

Stephen Friedman gallery 

                                       

    

    

Manuel Espinosa is similar to Patrick Thomas in terms of his use of colour. I found this exhibition particularly interesting because of his manipulation of colour and shape which are quite abstract/expressive. This is an approach I am yet to take in my work as I feel like it is more of a risk. Nevertheless, for my final outcome it would be interesting/ more challenging to experiment in more abstract manner.

Overall, I found this week was beneficial as it allowed me to consider the direction I want to take my project in. However, I think my research needs to be more focused on the content of my project in terms of the concept behind the visuals. I intend to look at having a disability from different angles in order to gain an idea about what I would like to say with my project.