CHAIRS: THE AMBIGUITY OF INVISIBLE OBJECTS

Abstract

In this paper, I describe work oriented to better understanding meaning-making within the experiences of blind people. Based on pragmatist aesthetics, the work presented forms part of an extended project towards the development of an interactive chair designed in light of specific ways in which blind people construct meaningful experiences around interactive artefacts. This paper discusses one phase of the research leading up to the construction of the chair that has involved the use of storytelling as an imaginative means of exploring interaction possibilities and experiential quality. The work is aimed at fostering an approach that prioritises designer agency and supports a connection between the different ways of experiencing of a sighted designer and blind users of the artefact. A story is presented and conclusions are drawn for the continuing work.

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