The
Body
Facade
Overview
Summary
In this interdisciplinary collaboration, we explored how manipulated information and filter bubbles on social media affect young people's body image issues. We critically analyzed how the #BodyPositivity movement has been distorted by consumerism into superficial activism.
Our goal was to place a chair with both artistic and practical value in public spaces, inviting public interaction to reflect on false body inclusivity and personal struggles on social media. Additionally, we designed a physical magazine, using humorous stories to present rich insights from our research. By combining tangible experiences with educational materials, we aimed to foster dialogue about body positivity and promote a more inclusive and diverse society.
Our goal was to place a chair with both artistic and practical value in public spaces, inviting public interaction to reflect on false body inclusivity and personal struggles on social media. Additionally, we designed a physical magazine, using humorous stories to present rich insights from our research. By combining tangible experiences with educational materials, we aimed to foster dialogue about body positivity and promote a more inclusive and diverse society.
ContributionAs the service designer for this project, I managed and coordinated the entire process. Through close collaboration with team members, I guided the research and design direction, facilitated the creative process for the chair design, and served as the editor for the project magazine. My role was to use engaging narratives to showcase the project's depth and breadth.
Background
In our research, social media is revealed as an integral part of modern life, consuming hours of our daily routine. It subtly influences users' body image, significantly impacting the younger generation. We liken social media to Bentham’s Panopticon, a seemingly open yet highly controlled digital space where users unknowingly become self-regulating subjects. In this digital Panopticon, social networks act as observer towers, making users continuously adjust their self-image to meet societal expectations and chase unrealistic perfection.
Recommendation Algorithms and the Echo Chamber Effect
We further explored how social media recommendation algorithms exacerbate body image anxiety. While intended to suggest content based on user interests, these algorithms inadvertently trap users in an echo chamber, narrowing their perspective and fostering unrealistic beauty standards. This technological mechanism not only limits user awareness but also intensifies the societal pursuit of a singular body ideal.
"Body Positivity" vs. "Body Neutrality"
Our research indicates that "body positivity," initially a resistance to body anxiety, has been distorted by consumerism into a self-contradictory performance. This distortion reflects society's complex demands on body image, as depicted in the movie Barbie: "You have to be thin, but not too thin. You must never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but you still have to be thin." We discovered the concept of "body neutrality," which neither encourages body hatred nor excessive self-admiration. Compared to the radical and romantic "body positivity," "body neutrality" offers a gentler, more patient approach, providing a more inclusive and practical way to combat body image anxiety.
Design
Chair
Color and Material For hygiene and durability, we chose smooth plastic material. Inspired by Barbie, we selected vibrant pink as the chair’s main color to enhance its visual impact. This choice not only contrasts sharply with the green foliage of the park but also provides a striking visual effect, drawing public attention and provoking thought on the project’s theme.
Design
Zine
To further enhance the personal and collective impact of the project, I propose adding a special section at the end of the magazine, documenting each team member's personal reflections on the project. This would not only showcase the evolution of our understanding of the issue throughout the project but also allow readers to connect with the human side of the designers and witness their growth.
Inspired by library borrow records, I designed a "Reader Feedback" section for the last few pages of the magazine. By providing space for readers to place stickers or write comments after reading, we can assess reader engagement in a visual way. This interactive element increases the magazine's engagement and provides valuable feedback, helping us understand readers' perspectives on the project and the thoughts it provoked in them.
Reflection
Recognizing Current LimitationsThis experience deepened my awareness of my current limitations as a service designer. Our reliance on post-its and whiteboards for conceptual design often leaves us open to criticism for staying at a theoretical level. I realized that incorporating more practical tools and materials in future research and design will demonstrate the tangible value of service design and bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Diversifying Research MethodsFrom my team members, I learned the importance of diversifying research methods, such as integrating more visual elements rather than solely relying on academic papers and specific statistics. This diversified approach will greatly enrich my future research scope and spark design creativity.
Reimagining the Power of ArtThis project reshaped my view of art. Previously, I saw art primarily as a form of entertainment or leisure. Now, I recognize its potential to evoke emotional responses, engage in social dialogue, and serve as a tool for societal change. In my future design practice, I will more confidently utilize creative media, exploring artistic methods to address problems.