Reader Submitted: Useless Object Series

Although we have copious amounts of objects around us, many of us only have a handful of products we genuinely value. This phenomenon raises a meaningful conversation around how we choose to own, value, keep, and pass down certain products.

The Useless Object series is a collection of three artifacts that isolates natural phenomena into tangible interactions. Although inherently useless, its form, material, and interaction explore our complex relationship with the products around us: “Can useless things still be considered valuable? Where do we draw the line between tool and art? Does design always need to be functional, or can it be something else? Can value and desire be intangible? Can it be a feeling?”

01: Gravity (“lift”)

The magnet hammer moves up and down, causing the iron filings in the jar to react. The filings visualize gravity as it rises and falls with the magnet.

02: Water (“squeeze”)

The medical pump is connected to a jar of water with a tube. Squeezing the pump releases bubbles, making the water come to life.

Light (“slide”)

The flashlight is connected to the rail, warping the light as it passes through the glass ball. The changing distance creates dynamic reflections outside the sculpture.

01: Gravity (“lift”)

The orange handle invites the viewers to interact with the object

01: Gravity (“lift”)

The vertical motion structure was deconstructed from a broken 3D printer

01: Gravity (“lift”)

The neodymium magnet activates the iron filings inside the vessel

02: Water (“squeeze”)

As you “squeeze” the air bubbles up to the surface

02: Water (“squeeze”)

The screws were spun with sandpaper to create a “radial” effect.

02: Water (“squeeze”)

Proportions were measured through drawing and sketch models

03: Light (“slide”)

The horizontal motion was resourced from a broken 3D printer

View the full project here
Source: core77