Kaizo Futures: What objects might you find in Japan in the future?

In collaboration with the Global Support Center of the Tokyo University of the Arts, we conducted a one-month residency program, inviting one teacher and one student from the National Institut of Design (NID), India’s national design institute.
A workshop was held where participants were free to design products of the future, and they were able to deepen their exchanges with the local community and students.
A wide range of participants, from high school students to adults, with an interest in design, art, and India, gathered together and brought in their own unused electrical appliances and parts to create products that depicted their ideal future.

 

Keywords: Design futures, AI, Design and Tech, Speculative Design, Participatory futures
Workshop by Sahil Thappa and Javed Ali
Date and Time: 4:30-6:30PM. 2024/7/5
Venue: Community Salon (3rd floor of Taki Plaza, Ueno)
Workshop participants: 10 people
Language: English

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Kaizo Futures: What objects might you find in Japan in the future?

What?
This workshop will aim at exploring the social and cultural implication of novel / transformative technologies like AI – using Design Futures methodologies and Hands on prototyping.
Our futures are often mistakenly guided by Science Fiction, Movies, politicians, forecasters and also popular narratives about technology from the west. We are interested in imagining, and making the diverse interpretation of our future, through the eyes of various everyday individuals. 

Why?
The purpose of the workshop is to bring out alternative perspectives, narratives and interactions with AI and other surrounding technology to open up discourse about our socio-cultural and ethical implications with technology we use. 

How? 
Using Design Future methodologies, and Kitbashing – participants will go through a framework that helps them build prototypes of everyday-future-objects that might exist in different Japanese spaces. Through discussion and hands-on exercises, we will delve into socio-cultural perspectives that influence technology. 

When? 
5 July 2024 – Friday
16:30 – 18:30 – 2 Hours 

Who? 
The workshop is open to anyone interested in the future and cultures surrounding AI and other technologies. No prior experience in AI or Design or prototyping is required.
Workshop participants: 10 people

The only two prerequisites are:
1. Curiosity and willingness to explore, make and have fun
2. Bring an object that you don’t use anymore, that is preferably old (one which you don’t mind breaking or opening up)