Acts of Emerging
Design Research
Sensory Divination |
Distabling Personal Identity
Personal identity is a social construct, and those who attempt to subvert it are often seen as heretics. In a moment when we seek to re-localise and decolonise forms and practice, "Sensory Divination" emerges as a speculative, experiential installation inspired by the Chinese practice of I Ching (易经) divination. The I Ching has been a wellspring of wisdom, utilizing the balance of Yin and Yang to craft tales through its 64 Gua since the Western Zhou period (c. 2,500 years ago). "Sensory Divination" taps into this rich legacy, morphing it into a speculative installation that melds early wisdom with contemporary technology. The Gua transcend their original roles as prescriptive tools. Under designer’s interpretative vision, each symbol evolves into a unique sensory guide. Eschewing dominant Western-centric classifications of the body and self, this installation catalyzes a sensory-driven journey, inviting participants to re-engage with their senses and kindle a renewed bond with their holistic identity.
This activity is conducted by Mengke Lian, a multidisciplinary practitioner and researcher from China, currently a PhD candidate in Naarm (Melbourne).