Infrastructures for Unmasking

In this seminar we explored critical neurodiversity. Rather than seeing neurodivergence as pathology, the model advocates for systemic changes that challenge the notion of the norm, created by patriarchy and capitalism. Rooted in social and ecological models of disability, the framework acknowledges intersectional oppression and draws upon queer, feminist and critical race theory.

Students created personal projects. Together they become an infrastructure for institutional acknowledgement of neurodiversity.

Katerina Kakotkina developed  a cosy corner for people to take a moment alone, while being at the school or in a museum. It’s ok not to feel like being observed the whole time.

Leonie Werner designed a vest to hug you tightly, because the pressure for a hug naturally releases feel-good hormones that help you relax. Wouldn’t you need this some time during the day? It also has nice textures to play with.

Juli Schiffer created are some fidget furniture add-ons. Wouldn’t be great to sit on furniture that are designed to fidget with them, instead of trying to mask busy fingers?

And Marlon Schüh made a cushion to sink in, while it stimulates you softly with pressure around your arms and back. Great way to process accumulated sensory stimuli.

We don’t want to mask anymore, we want to acknowledge our sensory seeking or avoiding quirks publicly!

The project has been shown at ZKM Karlsruhe, as part of the Art Education program. Many thanks to Alex Hermann and Mira Hirtz.