Bodyclock Architecture

Introduction

Start by dividing participants into smaller groups of 2 or 3. Each group is given the same brief: To design a kinetic light device for one of the following scenarios:

• Work: to make you feel alert – i.e. Hospital staff/night shift workers
• Rest: to help you sleep
• Wellbeing: to make you happy on a dull day
• Play: for dancing / partying

Light Palettes Inspirations

1. Arrange a selection of light palettes with photos of urban and natural environments in different light conditions for participants to view.
2. Ask them to consider what they find inspirational about those.
   In this phase, the facilitator can help by guiding participants with an aesthetic observation of the light: how it forms geometric patterns; what may be pleasant about certain features; if there is a rhythm to it (flash seconds; hourly; daily or seasonal etc) and discuss what may be suitable for their scenarios.

Designing and Building the kinetic model

1. Display the materials that will be used for the kinetic model. Be explicit in saying that the various components may be used for different purposes, and it is up to each group to make use of them to suit their designs.
2. Invite participants to work together to plan and sketch out diagrams to explain how they might use the materials for their light device.
3. Some guidance at this point may be offered by asking the groups to consider if there is movement of light/shadows; at which speed the device may release light or perhaps the focus is on the quality of light, as reflected or filtered, its colours, dimness or brightness.

Testing prototypes

1. Invite each group to test techniques using the given material: for example they can observe light using layers of coloured acetate, cut shapes with card to cast shadows, use wire to hang the card/acetate.
2. To support the groups with making their light device, the first step is to attach the wind-up mechanism to the foam base using glue. Next step is to use card/acetate to filter and/or reflect light based on their design and scenario.

Light Showcase

1. Each group presents their light device to the rest of the group, explaining their scenario and their concept, and the challenges/successes/lessons learnt.
2. Participants are encouraged to ask each other questions about how the light device changes the atmosphere in the room; how it makes them feel, and to provide feedback or comments to each other.

Reflection

1. At the end of the exercise, you may wish to invite a personal reflection on the hands-on nature of the project; what participants found challenging and how they overcome those; what might have been ‘good’ moments in the process and what aspects they valued for their own learning.