EMPAT HIC
INV E N T IO N
Other Us: Solas by Katy Shand M A
M aterial
F utures
20
Materials: Mixed Media
The UN estimates that more than 250 million people could be displaced as a result of climate change by 2050. In the context of increased migration and ‘statelessness’ Other Us is an exploration of the formation and survival of a future independent nation. 
 In the second half of the 21st century humans have ventured onto the oceans to live in floating island habitations. Solas is a raft state located in the North Atlantic. The project explores the process of building a state and gaining the recognition required for long-
www.katyshand.com
term survival from an established criteria for statehood: defined territory, permanent population, government and capacity to enter into relations with other states is used as a framework to create tangible future artefacts. Rather than the practical survival aspects of life on an artificial island the project instead looks at the long-term priorities and financial incentives. It is a critical exploration of the implications of marginalising and isolating displaced people.
katy@katyshand.com