Inspired by Kristeva’s Approaching Abjection essay, this project explores two concepts: the influence of design on the consumer and the effects of juxtaposing our senses of sight, taste, and smell.
I believe that packaging plays a vital role in selling a product and can convince even the most unwanted wastes—such as excrements—to be desired by a consumer (or reconsidered for purchase at the very least).
By choosing to showcase solely the excrements of cute, dainty animals like rabbits, kittens, guinea pigs, etc. and presenting the product in pristine, white packaging, I created an undeniable tension.
I believe that packaging plays a vital role in selling a product and can convince even the most unwanted wastes—such as excrements—to be desired by a consumer (or reconsidered for purchase at the very least).
By choosing to showcase solely the excrements of cute, dainty animals like rabbits, kittens, guinea pigs, etc. and presenting the product in pristine, white packaging, I created an undeniable tension.
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To further push this contradiction and play on the idea of subconscious abjection, I specifically decided to work with staple sweet treat ingredients like chocolate, instant oatmeal, frosting, rice krispies, caramels, etc. to create excrements that were not only edible but smelled incredible as well.
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When presented, people were attracted to the outer packaging but once they slid the box open, they were confused and appalled by what was inside. Even after I assured everyone everything was safe to eat, the audience was hesitant to taste test. Some brave souls who tried a few pieces said they felt weird for thinking the excrements tasted so good.
As expected, the psychological effects of eating with our eyes first significantly overpowered the sweet taste and even familiar aromas of popular baked goods. 2015.
As expected, the psychological effects of eating with our eyes first significantly overpowered the sweet taste and even familiar aromas of popular baked goods. 2015.