Title
NATURE’S INSIGNIA
INTERPRETIVE SIGNAGE SYSTEM
Student
DIGVIJAY SHUKLA
RITWICK NANDI
Mentor Year
2023
Bachelors in Design
Graphic Design
I, the undersigned, approve the following study as creditable work on the above subject carried satisfactorily to warrant its acceptance as a project. The student has satisfactorily worked in tandem with the mentoring provided for the same.
It is to be understood, that by this approval, the undersigned does not endorse or approve the statements made, opinions expressed or conclusion drawn therein, but approves the study only for the purpose for which it has been submitted and academic programme. Mentor Name
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit http: // creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/4.0/
I hereby declare that this submission is my own work and it contains no full or substantial copy of previously published material, or it does not even contain substantial proportions of material which have been accepted for the award of any I also declare that none of the concepts are borrowed or copied without acknowledgement. I furt her declare that the intellectual content of this graduation project is the product of my own work, except to the extent that assistance fr om others in the project’s design and conception or in style, presentation and linguistic expression is acknowledged. This graduation project (or part of it) was not and will not be submitted as assessed work in any other academic course.
Student
Before we dive into this project, I would like to mention a few people without whom this would not have been possible.
I would like to thank my mentor Mr. Ritwick Nandi for the optimism and commitment towards his role which involved constant guidance and motivation in the form of a mentor throughout the project. I would also like to thank our coordinators Ms. Abir Sheikh and Ms. Anusha Dhawan, for their support and channelization throughout the F.D.P.
Lastly, I would like to thank my batchmates, The Design Village Organization and the team at Domaine de Boisbuchet for the internship experience in the previous semester, which has not only greatly influenced this project, but has also had an impact on my identity on personal and professional levels.
This project looks to only act as a bridge between nature and humans, and a catalyst in fostering the idea of nature (through plants) being a significant and worthwhile part of our lives, thus shedding light on the importance of the connection we have with them, and in no way acts as a direct solution to any of the stated issues faced by any population in any context.
On a personal level, I believe that the project is a manifestation of past experiences that involved connection with nature(flora), especially during my internship at Domaine de Boisbuchet, and the realization of the importance of their presence in a few aspects of my life.
With rapid urbanization on the rise, many residential space inhabitants will, if they do not already, lack access to natural places. Indeed, with the current trajectory, the bulk of the population who live in big cities will spend the majority of their lives in developed urban settings. Globally, the world’s urban population in developed regions has increased from 55% in 1950 to 78% in 2011, and is expected to increase to a whopping 86% by 2050.
One outcome of this urban migration is that many young people today do not have the regular access to non-human nature and the experience of biodiversity that their parents, and more so their grandparents had. This concern can be referred to as an extinction of experience, and has been described as “...a decline in specific qualities of attention, ways of learning and thinking about the natural world” (Thomashow, T. Bringing the Biosphere Home: Learning to Perceive Global Environmental Change; The MIT Press: Cambridge, UK, 2002). This does not just limit itself to young professionals. In the last decade, studies have shown that children’s use of nature areas near their homes have substantially decreased and their activities changed from being spontaneous and self-initiated to being part of either planned or adult-controlled activities, which has further gone to increase the disconnection we as humans have had with nature.
There is no doubt that due to the mass media and the Internet, we can assess and communicate the status of ecosystems at a global scale, and describe how to take action against threats to their existence. Nevertheless, alongside these positive and revolutionary aspects, an indoor lifestyle and the use of digital media have lead to disengagement with the real world, particularly locally. In today’s society, the paradox is that many people have more critical knowledge about environmental issues and problems in other parts of the world, such as coral reefs and tropical rainforests, than they have specific and detailed awareness of the nonhuman nature around them in their daily lives.
There is an urgent need to remind city dwellers about remnant and natural environments and their intrinsic environmental, social, and emotional values. Interpretive design should fuse with experiential design in to create an immersive, descriptive and enriched experience that is sympathetic to the landscape and provokes people to reconnect with natural environments.
In addition to this, such experiences or tools, if used in specific spaces such as botanical gardens or natural reserves, for example, can be used as a method to conduct research and experience the process of doing so differently. After all, such tools are not only functional, but also offer room for beauty and experimentation.
To understand why connection with nature is important, we must first understand some terms that help describe different aspects of the human connection with nature
The human relationship with their natural surroundings can be coined into Biophilia, Topophilia and Biophobia.
Biophilia
Coined by biologist E.O. Wilson, biophilia refers to the innate and instinctive bond between humans and nature. It suggests that humans have an inherent affinity for the natural world, driven by evolution and an adaptive connection to environments that support life.
Biophilia encompasses the love of nature, the desire to be in natural environments, and the emotional and psychological benefits derived from interactions with the natural world. It suggests that contact with nature is essential for human well-being.
Topohilia
Topophilia is the emotional connection and affection that individuals have for a specific place or environment. It goes beyond a general love for nature and focuses on the emotional ties people form with specific landscapes, whether natural or built.
Topophilia can be expressed through positive feelings, a sense of identity, and a strong attachment to a particular location. It highlights the idea that people develop a deep sense of belonging and emotional connection to specific places, contributing to a sense of home or rootedness
Biophobia is the opposite of biophilia. It refers to the fear or aversion that some individuals may have towards natural elements or environments. This fear can be a result of negative experiences, cultural influences, or a lack of exposure to nature.
Biophobia can manifest as discomfort, anxiety, or avoidance of natural settings. It may contribute to a disconnection from the natural world and, in some cases, result in ecological apathy or indifference toward environmental issues.
Understanding these concepts helps illuminate the complexity of human-nature relationships. While biophilia emphasizes our innate connection to nature, topophilia delves into the specific emotional bonds we form with certain places.
On the other hand, biophobia sheds light on the challenges some individuals may face in developing a positive relationship with nature, often due to cultural or experiential factors. Recognizing and addressing these dynamics is crucial for fostering a healthier and more sustainable relationship between humans and the natural environment.
Despite of the rise in biophobia due to urban and technological developments, we still can see our biphilic character bloom through:
• Rich diversity of shapes, colours and life is universally appreciated
• Symbolic uses of nature in human languages (eg. the idiom “as blind as a bat”)
• Spiritual reverence of nature in various cultures
These theories proves that there are evolutionary approaches to environmental connectedness that have been in play throughout history, and that connection with nature is not something new, but has been unconciously around for generations.
Urbanization, marked by rapid population growth and the expansion of cities, has significantly altered the human experience, impacting our connection with nature. The consequences of intense urbanization are evident in various aspects of daily life, affecting physical and mental well-being.
While it is indeed a boon, it’s toll on mental health is well-documented too. Research such as “The Relationship between Urbanization and Mental Health : The Mediating Role of Neighbourhood Social Capital” (Chen et al., 2018) establishes a link between urban living and increased stress, anxiety, and depression. The lack of natural elements exacerbates these issues, as individuals are deprived of the calming and restorative benefits that nature provides.
Throughout the years, the rise of biophobia has contributed immensely to the disconnection between humans and the natural world. This has had tangible consequences on individual wellbeing and environmental stewardship, and has been observed to be often fueled by societal attitdues and a lack of exposure. Over the years, societal attitudes towards nature have evolved. A study published in the journal “Environment and Behavior” (Kals et al., 1999) indicates a shift from traditional views of nature as a source of wonder and connection to an increasing perception of nature as threatening or dangerous.
Biophobia also manifests in fear and safety concerns related to natural environments. Statistics from a study in the “Journal of Environmental Psychology” (Mayer & Frantz, 2004) show a rising trend in parental concerns about allowing children to play outdoors due to perceived risks, contributing to a reduction in nature exposure during formative years.
Worldwide, humans are increasingly seeking easy, digital lifestyles and the younger generations are developing digital-based behaviours that disconnect them further from nature. As digital devices become ubiquitous, they shape lifestyles and behaviors, often leading to a decrease in the time people spend in natural environments. Research published in the “Journal of Environmental Psychology” (Larson et al., 2011) indicates an inverse relationship between screen time and outdoor activities. As individuals spend more time on electronic devices, outdoor recreational activities, including nature-related pursuits, tend to decrease.
Such decrease in practices involving interaction with nature not only affects us in physcial terms, but has also been found to have negative impacts on mental health, leading to the development of the poorly investgated, yet prominent Nature Deficit Disorders, which will be discussed later.
The cultural and societal devaluing of nature has played a pivotal role in the divergence too. This phenomenon, rooted in attitudes, beliefs, and practices, has tangible consequences on individual behavior and community dynamics. A concise description of the aspects contributing towards this devaluing are listed below:
Economic Exploitation - Historically, economic progress and development have often taken precedence over environmental conservation in ways that have not only led to exploitation, but vast amounts of destruction of natural resources and locations. A study published in the “Journal of Environmental Psychology” (Dunlap et al., 2000) highlights how economic values may lead to the exploitation of nature, contributing to a mindset that prioritizes short-term gains over long-term ecological sustainability, which gradually not only puts us at risk, but the whole planet along.
Lack of Nature Education - The devaluation of nature is also perpetuated by a lack of environmental education. According to the “Nature Champions: The Role of Nature Connection in Children’s Wellbeing and Conservation” study (Mayer & Frantz, 2004), a deficit in nature education results in diminished appreciation for the natural world, leading to a disconnection.
Commodification of Nature - This culture of commodification, where nature is viewed as an endlessly exploitable resource rather than a source of awe, wonder and inspiration has also been a catalyst to such disconnection. Studies such as “The Commodification of Nature and the Consumer-Based Conservation of Biodiversity” (Görg, 2017) reveal how viewing nature as a commodity for consumption can erode its intrinsic value, fostering a disconnect between humans and the environment.
to nature have been decreasing steadily in fiction books, song lyrics, and film storylines since the 1950s.
Perspectives on Psychological Science, 2017
This has been causing a growing disconnection from nature through the cultural products we consume. In the works of popular culture in English throughout the 20th century and later, there is a documented cultural shift away from nature that begins in the 1950s. Since then, references to nature have been decreasing steadily in fiction books, song lyrics, and film storylines, whereas references to the human-made environment have not.
Our downfall
The implications of the disconnection of humans with nature and the rise of nature deficit disorders on society as a whole are significant. The lack of connection to nature can lead to a devaluing of independent play, weakened ecological literacy, and stewardship of the natural world, and a decrease in interest in protecting nature. Research suggests that the nature-deficit weakens ecological literacy and stewardship of the natural world, and contributes to a diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, conditions of obesity, and higher rates of emotional and physical illnesses.
These issues are collectively identified as Nature Deficit Disorders (NDD). NDD is a term coined by Richard Louv in 2005 to describe the human costs of alienation from nature, including diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. Although not a medically diagnosed condition, the term has been picked up by numerous authors, media outlets, and environmentalists and cited in hundreds of impact studies and research papers highlighting the link between nature and human development, and the worrying impact the growing disconnect between the two is having, particularly on children’s development and the implication for future generations
Thus, disconnection not only implies foregone physical and psychological benefits from engagement with nature, but also because cultural products are agents of socialization that can evoke curiosity, respect, and concern for the natural world.
However, society’s nature-deficit disorder can be reversed, and recent studies focus on what is gained through more exposure to natural settings, including the local nature in urban settings. Human behaviour, through gradual moulding, can come around to understand that even if there is no wifi in the forest, they may still find a better connection.
Understanding Nature So, what does nature do? What are the benefits of biophilia? Can nature truly be a healer?
A precise summary of what nature provides us with
Provides a view that requires limited concentration or focus, and does not stimulate stress responses
Regulation of temperature through shade provision, evapotranspiration
Stimulates an autonomic response of stress reduction, leads to restoration
Enhancing the location physically and climatically, encouraging time spent in community spaces and proenviromental behaviour
Leads to regulating blood pressure and stress levels, gradual improvement in immune system, lowered risk of chronic diseases
Encourages interactions amoung communities and increases social cohesion
Not only this, but various papers based on biophilia have proof of EEG studies, which show that experiencing natural environments is associated with several neurophysiological patterns linked to stress reduction (Yao et al., 2021).
For context, the electroencephalography (EEG) is widely used for the investigation of brain activity related to the exposure of natural settings, providing an important source of information on changes in neurophysiological dynamics associated with stressrelated processes.
Understanding Nature
Through research, it has also been observed that connection with nature is not just beneficial for us, but for nature itself as well. A detailed and comprehensive study of Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment (MENE) FROM 2009 to 2016 in England establishes the fact that
The more one visits nature and the more they appreciate the natural world, the more pro-environmental behaviours they report.
Pro-environmental behavior can be defined as all possible actions aimed at avoiding harm to and/or safeguarding the environment.
Adding on to the benefits, it has also been found that increase in productivity
by The Human Spaces - The Global Impact of Biophilic Design
increase in well-being increase in creativity
+6% +15% +15%
Understanding Nature
In our world, nature is a healer in multifarious ways. From providing calm, serene and scenic views to medicinal herbs, leaves and extracts. Above all, nature does not just have medical beneifts in the physical sense, but in terms of the human psyche too, through Ecotherapy.
Ecotherapy is a therapeutic approach that recognises the connection between human well being and the natural world. It is an evidence-based approach towards physical and mostly psychological issues , which was coined by Howard Clinebell in 1996, on the basis of the term ecopsychology. Rooted in scientific research, this approach recognizes the profound impact of nature on human health. Ecotherapy is based on the idea that humans are part of an ecosystem and that our mental and physical health is connected to that of the earth. Here are some pointers, on the basis of which ecotherapy has been proved to be impactful, regardless of it being a gradual impact on humans-
Studies, such as “A Preliminary Study Examining the Relationship between Urban Green Spaces and Stress in Adults” (Fuller et al., 2007), have demonstrated that exposure to nature leads to reduced cortisol levels—a key stress hormone. Ecotherapy, by facilitating nature immersion, offers a natural remedy for stress reduction.
Research in the “International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health” (Marselle et al., 2019) indicates that ecotherapy interventions contribute to improved mental health outcomes, including reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Nature’s therapeutic effects play a vital role in enhancing overall psychological well-being.
Physical Health and Immune System Boost:
Engaging with nature has been associated with improved physical health. Research in “Frontiers in Psychology” (Li, 2010) suggests that spending time in nature contributes to a boost in the immune system. Ecotherapy, by promoting outdoor activities, aligns with these physical health benefits.
Reduction in Rumination and Overthinking:
Nature experiences have been linked to a reduction in rumination and overthinking. The study “Nature Experience Reduces Rumination and Subgenual Prefrontal Cortex Activation” (Bratman et al., 2015) highlights how ecotherapy interventions can alleviate the mental burden of excessive thought patterns.
Increased Social Connection:
Ecotherapy often involves group activities in natural settings, fostering social connections. The “Journal of Environmental Psychology” (Mayer et al., 2009) discusses the positive impact of nature on social interactions and community building, further enhancing the therapeutic benefits.
As we can see, ecotherapy, supported by scientific evidence, showcases the healing potential of nature for humans. The statistics and data from research studies underscore the diverse benefits, ranging from stress reduction and improved mental health to cognitive enhancements and social connection.
The proposed immersive solution seeks to harness these therapeutic effects, fostering a deeper and more meaningful connection between individuals and the natural world.
Shamanism & Eco-spirituality
Shamanism and ecospirituality have significantly influenced fields related to healing through nature connection such as ecotherapy. The origins of shamanism and spirituality can be traced back to ancient cultures where individuals believed in nature’s power and the interconnection between humans and the natural world. These are also closely linked to ecotherapy and other nature-based healing approaches as they both recognize nature’s importance in healing and well-being. Some ways shamanism and spirituality influence these practices include:
Integration with Ecotherapy: Shamanic practices often incorporate ecotherapy techniques such as spending time in nature, connecting with the Earth, and engaging in rituals promoting healing and well-being.
Spiritual Activism: Shamanic ecologists like Elizabeth Meacham emphasize the importance of loving nature as a form of spiritual activism. By connecting with nature and promoting its well-being, individuals can contribute to the health of the Earth and its inhabitants.
Personal and Professional Growth: Shamanic practices can help individuals grow personal and professional spiritual skills through one-on-one sessions, workshops and other learning opportunities. These practices have also been proven to support personal growth and transformation.
Ecopsychology, which focuses on the relationship between the human mind and the natural world, has been applied in various therapeutic contexts to promote healing and well-being. Ecotherapy, also known as nature therapy or green therapy, is an applied practice of ecopsychology that uses nature connection as a healing tool. The significance of ecopsychology and ecotherapy in the modern era stems from their capacity to offer evidence-based, nature-centered approaches for treating a variety of ailments.
As additional research further elucidates the advantages of ecotherapy and enhances comprehension of its underlying mechanisms, this therapeutic style is growing in appeal among individuals exploring complementary options. The incorporation of ecopsychology into clinical methodologies also underscores creating an interdependent bond with the natural world to promote welfare among both humanity and the environment.
According to the renowned psychiatrist Carl Jung and other thinkers, shifting relations with the natural world have led to a loss of connection. The outer separation between humanity and nature is also reflected in the internal disconnect one feels from one’s own inner self. In his seminal works, Jung explored the innate linkages the human psyche shares with nature through the concept of the collective unconscious.
Jung’s theories have significantly influenced the fields of ecotherapy and other naturebased approaches to human healing. Jung’s ideas regarding the connections between the human psyche and the natural world helped shape the emerging discipline of ecopsychology, which examines the relationships between the non-human environment and human well-being.
Anthill Creations is a not-for-profit organization based in Bangalore, India committed to increasing access to play for all children. They accomplish this goal by transforming underutilized open spaces within school grounds and urban areas into sustainable playground environments. Their work focuses on intentionally designing play elements tailored to the local context, utilizing repurposed industrial materials such as scrap tires, metal, and oil drums, as well as recycled plastic boards and other items. The design team engages with children and community members to understand desired playground features and involves them in the construction process through age-appropriate tasks. They also invite volunteers and community members to participate from the initial design phases to help ensure ownership and ongoing maintenance of the playgrounds.
To date, Anthill Creations has positively impacted over 200,000 children by developing 300 playgrounds across 18 states in India. Key considerations from the case study include-
Health-Focused- By addressing the lack of structured recreational areas in schools across India, Anthill Creations is supporting positive mental and physical health outcomes for children.
Sustainable Approach- Anthill Creations sources all their materials and labor locally, thus minimizing costs, reducing their carbon footprint and creating economic opportunities for surrounding communities.
Equity-Centered- The organization prioritizes installing playground structures in public schools serving children from under-resourced areas.
Cost Efficiency- By upcycling waste materials into interactive recreational spaces, the organization saves on resources while helping divert waste from India’s landfills.
Primary Research Experiment
Total participants: 22 (Male: 11, Female: 11)
Age Groups: 15-24 (12 participants)
24-35 (10 participants)
If they have backgrounds or awareness in relation to fields involving nature: Yes
If they have been dwelling in the same location for >5 years: Yes
Methodology used: Percieved Restorative Scale (PRS) & Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART)
Participants were given two breaks, each lasting for about 40 minutes, exposing them to both natural and urban surroundings ( park and urban homes complex, respectively)
Primary Research Experiment
as follows:
The Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS)
PRS is a predominant metric for analyzing a participant’s feeling about the restorativeness of an environment.
The analysis is done through a questionnaire which includes questions targeting certain restorative factors that are assumed to be present to a greater or lesser extent in all environments. The questions are answered using a 7 point Likert Scale, where 1 means not at all, and 7 means totally. Finally, The PRS score of an environment is calculated through the mean of the score of all the answers
In the table on your right, the components are the restorative factors taken into consideration, and the items are the questions.
SART is a computer based test for analyzing the measure of the ability of a person to sustain their attention. The test is classified as a continuous performance task (CPT), and involves a motor response to frequent stimuli and a withheld motor response to a rare stimulus.
The participant views digits from 1-9, which are quickly masked by a circle with a cross after they have been displayed. To move forward, the participant needs to respond with a spacebar for all times, except when the digit displayed is 3. the digit is present for 250 ms and the mask for 900 ms. This timing is not influened by whether people respond or not. There are five different font sizes (48 point, 72 point, 94 point, 100 point, and 120 point). The stimuli are presented in white on a black background. All in all, it takes around 5 minutes to complete the experiment.
In this implementation, participants get feedback about the number and percentage of mistakes after the training and “real block”. It is also important to note that digits never repat one another. During the test, inn the training block, each digit in the range 1 to 9 is used exactly 2x, and in the real block, each digit is used 25x. This test also contains a countdown as well, to ensure that people are fully ready for the upcoming stimuli.
The PRS Test proves that being in a natural setting leads to an increment in percieved restoration, while the SART Test proves that it leads to an increment in attention and focus as well.
Thus actively displaying the benefits of nature connection mentioned previously.
It means friendliness, compatibility, social adjustment and good fellowship. Mankind has always prided itself on its sociality. And while it’s true that interacting with others is a big part of what makes us tick, we’re definitely not the only ones in the animal kingdom who enjoy some company. This trait is not restricted to the upper echelons of the more evolved. Lots of other animals like bees, ants and termites also live in close-knit groups and rely on each other to get things done.
So then, is sociability a trait that we find exclusively in the animal kingdom? The temptation to say ‘yes’ is overwhelming. But what about plants? Don’t they just grow wherever and mind their own business? We figured plants were pretty solitary - just soaking up sun, water and nutrients without needing to chat with their leafy neighbors. And on the surface, it does seem like a tree wouldn’t care if it was planted next to an oak or a willow.
Well, that’s what most of us used to think, and we would be wrong to summarize so. While plants may not move around or talk, researchers have discovered they’re actually way more social than we ever imagined. They not only communicate with their own species, sharing resources and warnings, but also transcend the species barrier to make unlikely friends.
Plants have also been known to compete when they feel threatened. So the next time you see a lush garden or forest, remember there’s a lot more going on underneath than meets the eye. Those plants may look peaceful, but they’ve got their own intricate social networks and strategies for getting ahead. Nature is full of surprises - you’ve just got to look a little closer to see what’s really happening.
The fundamental and perhaps only demand placed upon life is its continued perpetuation. Life will make any compromise necessary to ensure the future of its offspring. Self preservation is a strong motive, which even drives the organism to the extent of sacrificing itself to make sure it’s lineage is continued.
Plants also operate under these same principles. From a plant’s perspective, the primary requirement would be to establish itself. Once accomplished, the secondary goal takes effect - extending itself over time by producing new plantlets to carry on into the future. A plant’s survival priorities encompass only these two overriding concerns. To successfully achieve them, plants form unusual alliances when needed.
Kinships develop from the need to satisfy the requisites for the continuation of life. The array of interactions that these requisites place on living organisms is bewilderingly large in number and complex in scope. However, there is a salient factor as well.
These interactions are played out against a backdrop of abiotic or non-living environmental substances. The soil we walk on, the air we breathe, the water that sustains are just a few obvious examples. Then, there are sunlight, wind, currents, to name a few more. Fundamentally, all interactions between living beings rely on a source of energy. Together, the abiotic physical and chemical properties combined with the biotic collection of plants and animals comprise an ecological system, otherwise known as an ecosystem. Within these ecosystems, ecological interdependence and connection are clearly demonstrated.
On the face of it, it would seem simple enough to presume that plants suffer a setback when their leaves and stems are eaten up. But this is not always the case. It has recently been found that the scarlet gilia, a flowering herb that grows in the mountains of Northern Arizona, actually benefits from being eaten. Initially when Ken Paige of the University of Illinois, USA reported that gilia nibbled by deer produced more seeds, his finding was greeted with howls of protest.
Lively debate followed in the next ten years and now opinion seems to be veering around to Paige’s point of view. It seems that this herb with pretty red flowers is subject to intense nibbling (which it does not mind, but allows instead) albeit for a short period when deer and elk migrate to cooler locales at higher elevations in summer. It thus suits the plant to send up a single shoot in the spring, which can also be jokingly called ‘the deer detector’.
Despite of plants being infamous for their trickery to complete pollination, not all plants do so. The kangaroo paw plants are tiny, and have their flowers usually pointed downwards, so that a bird hopping on the ground has no problems reaching it. But some species of this group grow taller, thus rendering the birds incapable of reaching them.
The stems that bear flowers are surprisingly strong, stronger than needed to just support the flowers. Did plants intend them as perches? maybe. Birds happily perch on these branches while drinking energy-rich nectar, which is a potent reward for a crucial service. Birds like hummingbirds become so reliant on nectar that they spend their lives visiting flowers. Nectar-feeding birds migrate with seasons, tracking flowering sequences of different plant species, thus ensuring a continuous nectar supply, along with pollination. Thus birds are found wherever flowers bloom, exemplifying the ideal cupboard love.
Through two examples, which are as follows:
Plants can taste
Scientists Brian Forde and Hanma Zhang at the Institute of Arable Crops Research in Rothamsted, Hertford-shire, UK have discovered a gene in Arabidopsis, the model plant according science, that enables roots to test, or shall we say ‘taste’ the soil to find where nitrates and ammonium salts abound. The gene is called ANR 1. It saves the plant vital energy if roots grow preferentially towards such soil.
It seems that Stanley Roux, Colin Thomas and their colleagues have taken this finding a step further. These researchers at the University of Texas have found an enzyme called ‘apyrase’ on root surfaces. It ‘tastes’, i.e. it is sensitive to adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) produced by soil microbes and fungi. ATP is the cell’s energy currency. Apyrase helps the plants taste, steal and convert it into phosphate nutrients which are then absorbed.
Plants can hear
Finally, it may seem that the old maid’s theory of talking to plants may have a scientific bias after all. In 1996, Mordecai Jaffe at the Wake Forest University in North Carolina, USA carried out an experiment on dwarf pea plants. He exposed the plant to sound at a about 2 kilohertz which is about the same as a normal human voice, and at 70 to 80 decibels which is a little louder than speaking.
As a result, the growth rate of the exposed plants doubled. It is believed that gibberrellic acid which plays a role in shoot elongation is involved in the ‘hearing’ process. However, you have been warned that sitting and talking to plants might not be a practical thing to do as it would take days to show any effect.
Doesn’t knowing how similar their senses are, make them feel more ‘lively’ to us?
Nature is frugal. It conserves and recycles. But at the base of it all, lie plants. They are the sustainers. Even in the depths of the seas, it is plants that sustain the incredible variety of marine life, be it zooplankton or a whale. So, whether it is the tiger or the whale, on land or in the sea, plants form the fundamental source of food. Plants themselves would get by readily enough without us. All they need is a drop of water and a bit of sunshine, and are only indebted to the Earth, air and water.
It is rather galling to realise that without plants there would be no animals, no us. It may be difficult to accept that we owe our existence to them. We need them for providing timber, fabrics, medicines, building materials, dyes and for art as well. It is difficult to reconcile ourselves to this altered importance because most of us are geared to an anthropocentric world. We chop trees at will. We grow plants to suit our needs and our whims through acres of plantations. With the help of biotechnology, we even tinker with genes taken from plants. We pick leaves from trees as we walk past without so much as a ‘with your allowance’, and they have never complained! What a blow to the human ego to have the tables turned in such an adroit manner.
It all goes to show, does it not, that we need new eyes and a new mindset to appreciate the first citizens of our planet?
In accordance with the research, I infer that the project calls for me as a designer, to bring people closer to nature by emphasizing on and informing people about how the plants around them are a part of and important to the communities we live in as much as we, as humans, are.
CONNECT
Bringing people closer to nature through interpretive signage
Highlighting the sociability of plants in their ecosystem
Emphasizing on pro environmental behaviour and togetherness for a better future
The narrative kicks off with how to counter the onset of urbanization and digitization, the yoni (local ecosystem where the signage will be placed) gave birth to the forest spirits (the signage), to stay with the plant families, protext them and guide fellow humans to the path of harmony, and help them in understanding that plants too have thier place in the community.
Along with guiding the user, the forest spirits, through their ‘conversations’ (relay of information) basically nudges and provokes the user to look at the plant world with an atypical point of view that makes them be conscious and aware about the local plant families by providing that anamorphic, personified
idenitity to the plants through the tone of voice, and the type of information relayed, in turn attracting the audience outdoors and gradually increasing the time they spend interacting and connecting with their flora.
Using sociality as the major organizing theme, the signage aims to shed light onto the basic nature of a plant’s life and interactions, narrated in a capturing, mystical style, with equal emphasis on not only explaining and cataloguing facts, but also showcasing how plants form friendships, how they wage war using chemicals, their subtle yet tricky strategies for survival, and how they not only benefit the local ecosystem around them, bt how they have always been the first citizens of this planet.
Bridging The Gap Through the accumilated research it can clearly be seen that our connection with plants greatly revolves around and impacts 3 important aspects of our lives as humans:
The proposed concept heavily involves itself in the realm of awareness and education about the natural world, thus provoking our audience to reinstate or take initiative towards pro enviromental behaviours
The proposed concept also goes on to be a catalyst for nature connection and ecotherapy, thus reinstating or initiating biophilic practices amongst us, which have been proven to gradually affects our physical, mental and emotional well-being
The proposed concept not only goes on to promote hyperlocal human-plant interaction, but also hyperlocal interaction amongst other people, thus instating collaboartion and social support for those who need it. It also goes on to promote and provide opportunities for social groups centered around nature conservation and pro environmental behaviours
The proposed information system, when placed in a spectrum range of what would matter to which kind of target audience, comes out to be:
Plant chosen for iterations - Night Jasmine aka Harsingar (based on it’s cultural significance, features and how often it is found in the wild)
Ah, greetings, curious wanderer! Venture with me into the heart of an enchanted Indian forest, where moonlight plays hide-and-seek with the leaves, and the air carries the whispers of ancient tales. Here resides the Night Jasmine, or as the locals fondly call it, Harsingar – a charming shrub that unfolds its fragrant, white blossoms under the moon’s soft glow.
SEE IT : Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, the botanical soul of this bewitched grove , the secret healer of the woods, dons lance-shaped leaves like little nature spears. It’s no ordinary shrub, you see; it’s a friend to the enchanted creatures and keeper of age-old forest secrets.
In the lively forest, Harsingar is like a magical apothecary, creating elixirs of well-being. Its flowers, dipped in moonlight, become the stars in the nightly ceremonies, adding a sprinkle of mystic joy to the woodland parties. But there’s more! Harsingar shares a delightful dance with hidden pals in the soil – the mycorrhizal fungi. It’s a bit like a secret handshake between pals, aiding in the great nutrient exchange, ensuring each leaf gets a sprinkle of fairy dust for vitality.
Now, let’s talk human-folk. Harsingar is like a gentle forest doctor, offering remedies for aches and pains. Imagine it as a magical medicine cabinet, with leaves and blossoms brewed into potions that help with all sorts of human hurrahs and hiccups. And oh, the Night Jasmine knows how to throw a party for pollinators! Its flowers, scented like a magical potion, beckon moths for a moonlit feast. It’s like a grand banquet, where every little fluttering guest leaves with a full belly and a sprinkle of floral enchantment. But wait, there’s more magic! Harsingar’s fallen leaves, like friendly notes from one plant to another, tell tales to the soil. These tales stir a bit of garden gossip, creating a cozy environment where all the woodland buddies can thrive.
So, dear friend, as you walk through this mystical haven, know that Harsingar, with its blooms and leaves, is the gentle maestro orchestrating the woodland symphony. It’s a tale of moonlit gatherings, leafy secrets, and a sprinkle of magic for all who call the forest their home.
In the mystical heart of this ancient Indian forest, where moonbeams intertwine with the whispers of enchanted leaves, there lies a secret guarded by the spirits of the woodland. Amidst the ethereal glow, the Night Jasmine, known by mortals as Harsingar, blooms under the cloak of darkness. Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, the botanical soul of this bewitched grove, is a deciduous enchantress, a shrub adorned with petals that shimmer like stardust. Its leaves, shaped like the crescent moon’s delicate blade, dance in harmony with the night breeze, whispering tales of forgotten times. This mystical flora holds significance in the tapestry of Indian lore, an ethereal being entwined with sacred rites and mystical potions. In the shadowy alcoves where moonlight casts enchanting patterns, the flowers of Harsingar find purpose in celestial ceremonies, invoking ancient spirits and weaving dreams in the fabric of reality.
Behold, dear traveller, the symbiotic ballet of Harsingar and the mycorrhizal sprites that dwell beneath the roots. These earthbound spirits, unseen by mortal eyes, orchestrate a dance of nutrient exchange, a mystical waltz that sustains the very essence of this botanical realm. In the alchemy of nature, Harsingar extends its benevolence to humanity. Its essence, a potion brewed by the forest spirits, holds the power to mend ailments of the joints and bones, and soothe the weary souls. An elixir gifted by the woodland, it traverses realms to heal the afflicted, a mystical balm for the earthly realm. As a guardian of biodiversity, The Harsingar unveils its wings of fragrant allure, summoning night-faring pollinators like celestial moths and elder bats. In this nocturnal ballet, a prophecy unfolds — the dance of the pollinators, an unseen ode to the delicate balance of life, echoing through the ages.
But, traveller, as the Night Jasmine unfolds its mysteries, it shares its grace with the neighbouring flora. The leaves, like storytellers, weave tales into the soil, creating a symphony of nutrients that nourish the woodland kin. The dance continues with an eternal harmony, in the enchanted choreography of life.
Thus, In the heart of the forest, where shadows and moonlight entwine, the Harsingar stands as a guardian, a mystical bridge between realms. The Night Jasmine, a testament to the ancient magic woven into the fabric of India’s verdant soul.
Greetings, wandering soul! Join me in the heart of this enchanting Indian forest, where moonlight dances with leaves, and ancient tales linger in the air. Here, the Night Jasmine, or as you mortals call it, Harsingar, unfolds its fragrant blossoms under the moon’s glow, a charming shrub with lance-shaped leaves.
In this magical woodland, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, the botanical soul of healing, blossoms for nightly ceremonies, adding mystic joy to the forest gatherings. It shares a delightful dance with mycorrhizal fungi, like a secret handshake in the soil, aiding in a whimsical nutrient exchange for vitality amongst the others. For humans, Harsingar is a forest doctor, brewing anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-oxidant elixirs from leaves and blossoms to remedy diseases varying from simple fevers to cancerous lymphoma and T-cell Leukemia. The Night Jasmine throws a grand banquet for pollinators, attracting moths to a moonlit feast, and contributing to the biodiverse ballet.
But the magic doesn’t stop there! Harsingar’s fallen leaves, like friendly notes, tell tales to the soil, creating a cozy environment for their woodland buddies to thrive. As you stroll through this mystical haven, know that Harsingar is the gentle maestro orchestrating the woodland symphony – a tale of moonlit gatherings, leafy secrets, and a sprinkle of magic for all forest dwellers
“The language is colorful and imaginative”
“I learnt something new about a plant I see so often! This could help my teens learn without getting bored”
“engaging, feels like learning something from a tale”
“feels like a fresh pair of eyes for us, and a new voice to some plants I have been overlooking”
Bringing people closer to nature through interpretive signage
Highlighting the sociability of plants in their ecosystem
Emphasizing on pro environmental behaviour and togetherness for a better future
Enhancing the location physically and climatically, encouraging time spent in community spaces and proenviromental behaviour
Leads to regulating blood pressure and stress levels, gradual improvement in immune system, lowered risk of chronic diseases
Encourages interactions amoung communities and increases social cohesion
The colors were chosen on the basis of their balance in visual distinction from the plants and the green sceneries they would be placed in and around. The colors are as follows -
• Desert Tan
• Columbia Blue
• Cool Grey
• Charcoal Blue
• Twilight Lavender
• Black Coffee
On the basis of the narrative revolving around the signage system being a representation of a forest spirit, the following keyword were considered while choosing an apt visual style to go along with and enhance the overall experience -
• Ethereal
• Magical
• Botanical
• Fantasy
cutouts to support the climbers and creepers
• Initial costs - May require a significant upfront investment in hardware and software.
• Location - Locations at further distances to the space’s urban counterparts, thus resulting in a limited reach.
• Intricacies of the natural environment and of the behaviour of urban environments.
• Evolving Landscape - Natural environments evolve, with plants growing, changing, or dying, which could render the experience inaccurate or irrelevant.
• Accessibility - The location to be researched may not be frequently reachable to conduct primary research.
• Accessibility to relevant data - Due to the lack of data on the local context, or for that matter, on the Indian context, the research may lack certain factors which may alter the project in various ways
• Note - The final form of the design displayed in the document is subject to modification with respect to the contexts they are placed in (for eg. the language used to communicate the information), and the clients that sponsor this project.
Bibliography -
https://www.esalq.usp.br/lepse/imgs/conteudo_thumb/The-amazing-and-hidden-life-of-plants.pdf
https://esource.dbs.ie/server/api/core/bitstreams/6c7de8b4-dab1-4760-9ff6-a603d1f9f366/content
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/238332528_Jung’s_Contribution_to_an_Ecological_Psychology
https://www.terra-imaginatio.fi/workshop-basics-of-jungian-ecopsychology/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7758313/
https://blog.pachamama.org/blog/healing-ourselves-and-the-earth-with-ecopsychology
https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/types/econature-therapy
https://ies.bio/ecopsychology/ecopsychology-in-practice/ecotherapy/
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nature-sidebar
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7758313/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6085576/
https://www.highlandquietlife.co.uk/post/evoking-emotional-memories-in-nature
https://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/chiwonlee/plsc211/student%20papers/articles08/CassiSchriefer/Cassi’s%20 Website/Cassi’sWebsite.html
https://www.lookdigitalsignage.com/blog/why-and-how-to-use-digital-signage-in-plants-and-factories
https://www.manufacturing.net/operations/blog/21452073/the-growing-benefits-of-plant-floor-digital-signage
https://www.thedisplayshield.com/blog/digital-signage-for-manufacturing-and-food-processing-facilities-whatyou-need-to-know-/
https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rsbl.2007.0232
https://www.wired.com/2009/11/plant-family-values/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9271008/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095263521000479
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fbuil.2019.00028
https://biophilicdesign.umn.edu/sites/biophilic-net-positive.umn.edu/files/2021-09/2015_Kellert%20_The_ Practice_of_Biophilic_Design.pdf
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.750245
https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/pan3.10451#pan310451-bib-0011
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/7/7/8837
www.pinterest.com/signagesystemconcepts
