PROCESS
Project 2: Economic Impact of the Summer Olympics
The brief of this project was to produce an engaging and thoughtful interactive data visualisation work. For this project, I expanded on the theme of the Economic Impact of the Summer Olympic Games, aiming to highlight how the Olympics go beyond medals and competitions. The games serve as a platform for cultural exchange and global unity, especially for host cities. While hosting the Olympics can be costly, the benefits extend far beyond the financial aspect. The influx of millions of tourists during the games boosts investment, generates substantial job opportunities, and transforms host cities into vibrant hubs of diverse languages, traditions, and cuisine, enriching both visitors and locals.
I approached this project by translating complex data into a physical form, creating a garment that serves as a unique data visualisation. By incorporating data into a tactile and wearable medium, I challenged the traditional flat presentation of information, aiming to make it an accessible part of everyday life.
The process of making my project began with initial sketches and digital layouts, followed by the integration of interactive features to enhance viewer engagement. A hidden zipper design allowed sections of the jumper to fold, revealing a data key, while icons and corresponding stitch patterns on the sleeves symbolized various revenue sources. These elements added a textured layer to the garment, both aesthetically and informatively. The centerpiece, a circular graph drew on Olympic symbolism, such as medals, balls and targets to create a visually direct connection to the Games and their cultural significance.
