During this week’s study, I learned about the elements that affect forest change, and learned about the economic and ecological value of forests. However, in the search, especially in the domestic research on the cultural value of forests, it seems that only the recreational functions of forests have been described and evaluated.

The social survival and development of human society mainly refers to the different survival and development needs of human society that are different from other natural things. For example, we not only require a natural environment that can meet the needs of survival and development, but also require these natural environments to be pleasing to the eye, orderly, and able to meet the needs of their free activities. It is this social need, which is different from other natural objects, that constitutes the value base of society, and thus constitutes the special social value of forests. This will be an important aspect of my follow-up research.

miro board here

 

Prototype:

The sketch below is about the prototype design of the installation (the space part). This installation will present a perversely “dystopian” society (environment). 

Space design:

Room (enclosed space) – an isolated entity. The main backdrop for the dystopian space. Juxtaposing “dystopia” and “island” to facilitate narrative in a closed space.

Sand and Stone – simulation of an apocalyptic scenario.

Pendulum – time. It implies that the game or symbiosis between humans and nature is a tortuous process. Any future scenario may exist in certain details of what is happening in the present.

Game design:

In its natural state, the pendulum swings continuously and leaks sand from it. Only one person participates in the game at a time. Participants were required to find a small hole buried under the sand and plant a seed (perceived with a sensor) within a specified time. If successful, the sand inside the pendulum will stop leaking out.

 

In my project, I want to engage with the phenomenon that, although we have recognized the problem of forest die and the resulting destruction of our environment, this realization is not usually reflected in our actions. The interactive game renders this contradiction tangible. Each participant unconsciously assumes the role of the entire human race; an individual standing for the collective. By means of his or her actions, the participant gets to determine the significance of individual behavior to the environment.  

 

Experts:

The first thing I consider is which experts are more suitable to interview，list as blow:

– Environmental scientists, or specialists specializing in forest research (it seems hard to find anyone I know with a professional background like this): they are the people who know the forest ecology best. Can help me in terms of history, current situation, environmental protection policies, etc.

-Sociological researcher: forests are a problem for all human beings, it is not limited to the ecological level.

-Environmentalists: anyone around me who is concerned about environmental protection or who takes action can be my interviewees.

-Game designer: they understand the system of game design, and their way of thinking about game design is worthy of my learning and reference.

– Friends who grew up in forest areas: their knowledge of forests may be more reflected in their growth history. Let me find some clues from these different living conditions.