The Body Facade

Our desktop research uncovered that social media has become a ubiquitous platform where people spend hours daily, yet it subtly exacerbates body image issues, particularly among younger demographics.

Furthermore, the algorithms driving social media recommendation systems, initially intended to personalize content based on user interests, now contribute to reinforcing body image anxiety by trapping users in filter bubbles. Viral beauty challenges have contributed to feelings of insecurity among users.

Despite the prevalence of the #Body Positivity movement as a response to body image anxiety, recent studies suggest that it has been co-opted as a consumerist tool, wherein consumption becomes a means of self-affirmation rather than genuine acceptance. This transformation has led to the phenomenon of performative activism, as illustrated by the paradoxical expectations imposed by societal standards, epitomized by the famous Barbie movie line:

"You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin."

Our design proposal centered around three core elements: Abstract Visuals, Public Space, and Playfulness. We emphasized the concept of public furniture, particularly chairs that seamlessly blend functionality with accessibility. This approach was aimed at fostering increased public interaction and facilitating the widespread dissemination of information.

We envisioned individuals experiencing our interactive chair at Berkeley Square, London. Here, people of all ages would have the opportunity to engage with the chair. Each perspective offers a distinct view of the chair, symbolizing the diverse perspectives found on social media platforms. As individuals sit on the chair, their viewpoint becomes fixed, immersing them in the chair's abstracted body parts. This mirrors the struggle experienced within the filter bubble of social media.

Read our interactive zine, the tangible companion to our virtual chair experience, where vivid storytelling, engaging visual illustrations, and real evidence come together to invite you on a journey of flection. Discover our insights, design considerations, and team reflections as we explore the complex relationship between social media and body image. This zine serves as a complement to the chair, offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes thoughts and efforts that shaped our project.