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?"

*The objects are physical and are not renders.

2 weeks
80/20 Aluminum T-slots, Recycled parts from a 3D printer, Metal bandsaw, Belt sander, Milling Machine, Sandblasting Machine, and Drill Press
Industrial Designer, Kinetic Sculpture
Core 77
Core 77

01

02

03 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.

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.