4 Distortion
Material concepts
“Software is eating the world,
but AI is going to eat software.”
Material Concepts
Skins
The materials of Distortion provide the foundation for exploration and experimentation with interchangeable skins, light projections, temporary decorations and smart interactive areas, before reverting back to becoming inconspicuous and non-existent. The materials and shapes are a blank canvas for experimentation and can be used for creating base layers and forms. In the physical world, the shapes and materials seem to blend into the surrounding. They have a non-human appearance and may have irregular surfaces, localized fillings and protective coatings.
Left material, coated linen, 78% LI, 22%PU
Right material, bubble 3D knit, 55% PL, 44% CO, 1% elastan
Dimensional
The materials of Distortion are 2D structures that can be expanded into 3D shapes, so a large volume and dimensional surfaces can be created with minimal use of materials. Volume and colour contrasts can be used to highlight the construction. The freedom of design in the metaverse translates into the physical world as volume, a play of proportions and depth. Textiles can replace heavier materials and become smart, forming the soft connection between the physical and digital realms.
Left material, 3D padded polyester with stitch pattern
Right material, grid embossed metallic foil
Luminance
Distortion’s materials are inspired by temporality and continuous movement. The shapes, materials and colours change and shift, they appear to be in constant flux. The materials interplay with colour, light and shape, which makes them dynamic. The reflective capacity of the materials is also important; they reflect their environment and provoke motion by doing so. In digital design anything is possible; a dress of light, a chair made of thunder, a car made of clouds. This materiality without limits will eventually be translated back into the physical world, as we will come to expect the same excitement and creative imagination already displayed in the digital domain.
Left material, colour shifting double layer fine mesh, 100% PL
Right material, iridescent coated nylon, 100% PA
Dream landscapes
The material structures of Distortion are open and layered and every viewing angle offers a different perspective. The materials are inspired by the past that meets the present and the artificial realm that meets geology. The digital domain and digital design invite us to reflect on what something is, what it was in the past, and what it could become. Inspiration for the materials comes from interactive computer simulations, rapid prototyping and other visual technologies.
Left material, knitted plastic coated wire with foil
Right material, organic textured clay
