Acme Corporation
Exploring the topic of Xenotransplantation through the use of speculative objects
2021
Speculative Design
About
This project was part of the Fall 2022 Designing Futures class taught by Prof. Laura Forlano at the Institute of Design. The goal of the assignment was to explore complex topics through the use of speculative objects.
This project focused on our changing relationship with technology, and the ethics around human-technology relationships.
Signals of Change
The first step was to map signals of changes around the topic of “Our Relationship with Technology” , looking at predictions for how technology will shape our lives in the years to come.
Xenotransplantation:
Currently ten patients die each day in the United States while on the waiting list to receive lifesaving vital organ transplants.
Transplantation using non-human sources, including animals and lab-grown organs has the potential to save thousands, but brings with it a slew of ethical implications.
Speculative Objects
The topic chosen was Xenotransplantation, as it presents both a solution to a pressing issue, but comes with a slew of ethical implications. These tensions were brought out in the form of a series of speculative objects.
This project presents 3 “versions” of possible solutions, presented as offerings from a fictional company. The design process included the creation of brand collaterals, AI generated brand imagery, product brochures and finally “organ transportation” kits.
