Motu
Physical aid for self-comfort and reflection
Motu is a cuddling object that makes use of tactile and visual stimuli to provide a soothing sensory experience that invites for a moment of meditation and intronspection.
Soothing Visuals
When the user holds Motu, its surface will display randomized patterns that appear on a slow pace slow enough to give a soothing experience but fast enough to grab our attention.
Embraceable Shape
Motu's shape is meant to be embraced by the user and explored with their hands while their sight is absorbed by the everchanging patterns
Comforting Material
Motu is made of soft felt, a comforting material that provides a comforting tactile experience.
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··· Process ···
Motu's inspiration comes from a need of transforming my own experience as an expat into an opportunity to make use of the newly acquired time I spend alone as a moment of reflection and introspection.
Being alone can give us a feeling of loneliness, however, seeing the value of these moments can transform that experience and help us enjoy the time we spend on our own
··· Tools and Techniques Used ···
·· Body ··
· Wool Felting ·
· Foam Shaping ·
· Sewing ·
·· Visuals ··
· Arduino ·
· Adobe Illustrator·
· Conductive Thread ·
· Thermochromic Paint ·
·· Process ··
· State of the Art overview ·
· Literature review ·
· Moodboards ·
· Sketching ·
· Prototyping ·
· User Testing ·
Testing
Users were asked about the characteristics that make wool more appealing for either sight or touch.
Shape
Motu's shape was defined with the use of mockups. These mockups informed about the characteristics that would allow the user to best embrace Motu.
Visuals
Motu's visuals are inspired by the slow movements in nature. Trees moving with the wind, a candle, the movement of clouds.
These movements give enough information to our senses to keep us focused and allow for some introspection.
Skills
The making of Motu involved the use of several skills such as felting, arduino programming, user testing, prototyping and electronics.
