MEANING
MAKING
Yashika Munjal
Meaning Making/ MAKING MEANING
A card game designed to encourage creative expression and independent thinkingamongkids
"Meaning Making" is a collaborative game designed for kids of age 6-10. It constitutes a deck of 36 cards(18 red and 18 white) with intricately cut patterns that interlock making variousabstractshapesthatareopentointerpretation.Thepatternappearsonbothsidesof thecardsallowinganopportunityofinteractionviadrawing.
Drawing from a personal experience as an introvert child, the game tries to provide a safe space for children to share their ideas without the fear of rejection. "Meaning Making" fosters confidence and acceptance amongpeersbyeliminatingcompetitionand celebrating creative differences all while nurturing a sense of security in expressing individualperspective.Infact,thegreaterthe difference, the more interesting the game becomes. "Meaning Making" can generate over 1500 abstract patterns with only 36 cards providing endless possibilities of imaginative interpretation. It empowers children to embrace their creativity and celebrate their unique perspective within a supportiveenvironment.
Meaning Making has been tested as a concept in schools in India as well as the UK.
Abstract shapes formed by the cards that are open to interpretation
Some examples of drawing done by kids on Meaning Making
IMPACT
"Meaning Making" has a multifaceted impact on global society. By nurturing creativity and acceptance in children, it cultivates a generation of innovative thinkers who are better equipped to solve complex problems and adapt to change. This fosters a more inclusive and empathetic society, where diverse perspectives are valued and respected. By integrating into educational systems worldwide, "Meaning Making" has the potential to uplift communities, bridge cultural divides, and contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable future for all inhabitantsoftheplanet
CONCEPT
Thecorecreativeconceptisthesimple interlocking mechanism that is enhanced by carefully cut patterns into the cards. This mechanism can be manifested into fashion, architecture, jewelry or other realms. This game is also an attempt to contextualize the biggerconceptofinterlocking.
WHYMEANING MAKING?
MEANING MAKING priorities creativity and socio-emotional development in children. Unlikeothergames,itoffersa collaborative format for open ended expressions. Moreover by integrating it into the educational system, it addressesacreativegapin promoting creative thinking and inclusivity, distinguishing itself as a catalyst for a positivesocialchange.
Short video about the Project
Winner, Kokuyo Design Award 2023 under YokokuAwards
AboutYashika Munjal
Yashika finds herself immersed in the world of design and research, with a particular love for pottery. Currently, She’s has been serving as a Design facilitator, where she has the privilege of mentoring budding design students while also chipping away at her own personal projects. One suchprojectclosetoherheartis"MeaningMaking," ahumbleexplorationofcreativityandsignificance.
Beyond her professional endeavors, She finds great joy in collaborating with communities, especially children, where she hopes to contribute positively through design and creativity. Along the way, She has been honored with a few awards that reflect not just her work but the support and inspiration. These include the Elle Decor Design Award 2020, the D&ADYoungBloodAward2022,theKokuyoDesign Award2023,andtheAoyamaDesignForum2022.
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