VIRTUAL New Schools of Thought
Abstract
The Alchemical Experience Initiative was born from observing undesirable shifts in students’ approach to design process in the wake of COVID-19. Observations included decreased curiosity, decreased engagement, fear of taking risks, and increased anxiety. Two faculty members designed “alchemical” experience workshops aimed at injecting joy and wonder back into student design process. “Alchemical” is defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary as “a power or process that changes or transforms something in a mysterious or impressive way.” The exploration of physical matter and alchemical design experiences (including making soap and biochar) spawned discussions of alchemy’s scientific, theoretical and psychological manifestations across the world and within people. Students went on to design their own unique workshop for the faculty members using their refreshed perspectives. The Alchemical Experience Initiative is an ongoing effort to help students maintain knowledge, grow as designers, and participate in the world as curious, constructive citizens.
Emily Verba Fischer is a tenured Associate Professor in the University of Cincinnati’s School of Design. She began teaching after receiving her master’s degree from the Basel School of Design. Prior to her studies in Switzerland, she worked as a visual designer for a variety of corporate and cultural clients in New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, and the French Alps. Design for ecology, design process, and information aesthetics are among her ongoing areas of investigation.
John Dixon is a critical yet curious designer and Assistant Professor of Industrial Design at the College of DAAP at the University of Cincinnati. Guided by curiosity, function, craft, and social impact, John lives and works within a niche that is both considered and considerate. Equally adept at fabricating furniture and housewares and conceptualizing socially guided products, John loves to dig in – going beyond what is asked or even needed. For John, design is a journey through which he can demonstrate the value and the impact the act of making can have on people, spaces, and ideas.
7:00 am - 8:30 am
Wednesday 8th January, 2025