601 October Evaluation

OCTOBER I feel that the first few weeks of term I haven’t been as productive as I would have liked.

I have struggled without the rigid timetable I was used to, and it’s only over the last two weeks that I’ve been able to start working in a way I’m happy with. I have also struggled a huge amount with how to start my practical, especially with how to make it flow alongside my essay. I also feel that I have done far less practical work than I should at this point, and I need to start working more efficiently.

I have however learnt a lot about current movements within my chosen field, as there are a lot of people actively working to decrease the amount of packaging created. In particular, I was inspired by Package Free, and I feel that they have given me a strong inspiration and direction for my practice.

Another aspect I have improved on is my critical analysis, as I have found myself having to rigorously evaluate the reliability of sources, as well as respect viewpoints which I personally disagree with, which has led me to creating interesting arguments.

MANIFESTO: To work with a purpose, using colour to create packaging design which finds the balance between what is necessary and what isn’t.

The most enjoyable aspect of my project so far has been how I can learn so much about sustainability and alternatives to plastics, as it is something I have a huge interest in. I have also found myself being far more observant of what packaging I consume, and mindful of every action I can make to create a more sustainable lifestyle.

Part of the project which I feel is successful so far is my structuring and writing of the essay, as I feel because I have started this early, I will have plenty of time to revisit and revise sections. I also feel that I have planned my time well to ensure I am working a little on the essay each day and I am not leaving it to a huge rush at the end. In addition, I’m also really pleased that, with the help of my tutor, I have been able to create a manifesto, which has made me feel a lot more confident about how I am approaching the work, and will help me a lot with the intent behind my practical.

‘A hypothyroid economy that can be sustained only by constant stimulation of the people and their leaders to be more prodigal with the nations resources’ -Packard, 1960 p. 17

Throughout the rest of the project I need to focus more of my energy into the practical aspect, as, similarly to my 505 project, I feel a strong personal connection to this topic. Therefore, I want to make successful outcomes to not only please myself, but also to reflect the importance of the issue and hopefully raise other people’s awareness. I also need to continue collecting and absorbing research until the very end, as sustainability is such a multi sided issue that I want to ensure I explore as much as possible.