Alternative practices for dialogues of sustainability
In a world were the current western model of a desirable lifestyle does not seem to be leading towards better societies or a more satisfactory existence, this project examined whether lives organised around specific bigger-than-self values could form case studies or examples of quests for more meaningful, sustainable lives.
As a result, communication devices and toolkits were designed for "everyday activists" living in line with their values, with the aim of supporting their journeys and bringing their alternative practices into our “collective imagination”.
Through a collaborative design process, four “everyday activists” were invited to document their life using “cultural probes” (including a diary, a camera and crayons). In their documentation they all spoke of the challenge of being misunderstood or unaccepted for choosing to live in accordance with their values. As a response, I created a toolkit that could help them communicate each of their values in their everyday lives.
The responses and conversations with some of the collaborators to the specific toolkits designed for them, led to the creation of one final activist toolkit with three aims:
1. To highlight the value of choosing to engage in alternative or intentional practices as forms of everyday activism
2. To provide tools to support these everyday activist in their brave endeavour, recognising how hard it is to go against the norm and follow their convictions
3. To help them engage in more fruitful conversations with others.
It was directed not only at individuals already engaging in some alternative practices but also at people who are keen to start questioning their lives and trying new things.
The “Personal Everyday Activism Toolkit” includes a manual with theoretical framework around effective communications, non-violent language, cultural barriers and behaviour change, as well as instructions for building the toolkit (using sustainable materials).
