I have learnt a great deal during this module, most noticeably the importance of taking a break and not letting myself get too stressed by the workload, which in turn improves my work quality. I have also learnt how to combine research and practical work effectively, and how one can inform the other to create a harmonious outcome.
The aspect that has been most enjoyable is how I have dived in with the practical work and experimented with different media quickly and without worrying if it looks perfect. I have also enjoyed indulging myself in exploring the wide, varying aspects of sustainable packaging to satiate my curiosities as I had enough time to not just focus on one specific strand.
The most successful outcome of my project would be the final applications, as I think they communicate my intention of strong design balanced with sustainability. Another aspect which has worked well is the documentation of my daily packaging waste, as I’m very proud that I have been able to create this collection, and it has also helped me cut down on the amount of packaging waste I create.
I did however struggle to commit daily to filling in the waste sketchbook, as I’m not a natural ‘drawer’ and so promising to spend time drawing everyday was difficult for me. However, it has really benefitted me, and I think I will carry on my waste sketchbook as a personal project, as I have enjoyed it so much. I also struggled creating professional mock-ups and presenting my work, but since I had been generous with the time I allowed myself, I was able to spend a little longer on these aspects until I was happy.
I will take so many things forward from this project, both in my personal life and creative practice. After realising how many changes are very simple and could have a huge impact I will make many changes to my daily life, such as only using re-usable cups, swapping to beeswax wrap instead of cling film, and choosing plastic free packaging. In my creative practice, I have been left with a strong manifesto for my future projects, which is ‘to always work with care, sensibility and purpose, striving towards creating a balance between beautiful and sustainable design’.
Past evaluations:
