KOLAM
2022
This design as social practice uses culture as a physical defense. Following the Indian tradition of drawing a Kolam with rice flour on the doorfront, this security mechanism uses an magnetism and unique material quality to activate the metal grains in the Kolam. The iron filings that make up the Kolam on the ground and the roof create an electromagnetic field that is then able to conduct electricity in the presence of an object. Optimizing its spitirual protection as a physical barrier transforms culture from its most basic form to impede imminent danger.
Authorities in America remain one of the biggest threat to undocumented immigrants. With intent of violence and inhumane treatment of these individuals, these officers carry guns and heavy metal weapons. An officer steps on the Kolam that envelops the front and top of the house. The Kolam’s iron filings is connected to a circuit underground and leads to a bulb inside the house of the individual at risk. The two parallel Kolam’s and their iron filings create a permanent space of constant electromagnetic field. This is the space into which the officer walks in. As their heavy metal gun enters this field- the detection space- the circuit is completed. The complete circuit triggers a light inside the house, warning the insider of potential danger.
2022
No content on this page can be reproduced to any extent without the consent of the owner. ©️