ABSTRACT
Bringing tangibility to the often conceptually abstract, the design and research team behind BIO DATA MATTER began collecting, generating, and synthesizing data sets on the microbiome of New York City. The digital fabrication methods included 3D printing in various biodegradable materials, laser cutting and sintering, and a hybrid approach to manufacturing design objects. In terms of research methodology, our team was fascinated by the opportunity to extract biodata and biomaterials from different sources and use them as a means of representation and storytelling. The design objects representing “Air” were created from data collected in New York State and stored on the Department of Environmental Conservation – Air Monitoring Website. Bringing together the worlds of science and design, this project was meant to invigorate the design community and urge it to embrace the possibility of tactically engaging in a discussion on introducing the grotesque of biomaterials into design objects.
