INSIDE OUT

To a layperson, graphic design is as simple as cladding imagery or content around the surface of an object or a canvas, which in turn fulfills a function – be it decorative or utilitarian in nature. As a design practice that was first established specializing in graphic design, surfaces have always been our priority and interest.

Every form has two surfaces – one that we see, and another that is hidden. In simpler terms, the former is the front or the exterior, and the latter is the back or the interior (refer to Fig. A). In our practice, finding ways to utilize both surfaces of a form or rather, enable them to perform different functions, has always been our interest. In order to achieve this, we often explore creating forms that allow themselves to be flipped inside out. This is usually enabled through the technique of wrapping.

The way in which we wrap an object often results in the creation of other new forms. For example, an object that needs to be contained is usually accompanied by a box, bag, tray, etc. To a certain extent, the art of wrapping is a process of designing form. For a start, one will place the object that needs to be contained on top of a chosen wrapping material. Subsequently, one may begin exploring various ways to encase the object through folding, twisting, crushing, etc. (refer to Fig. B), at times, covering the object in entirety, and in others, only partially, whilst intentionally exposing parts of it. Sealing the package can then be done using adhesives or through the act of simple tying, knotting or tucking (refer to Fig. C). Most importantly, through wrapping, we are encouraged to utilize both the insides and the outsides of a material as they are both part of the experience.

Full consideration of the process of wrapping cannot be divorced from the process of unwrapping. The forms that we create through wrapping are usually temporal and disappear once unwrapping has taken place — returning to its original state (refer to Fig. D). This gives us the option to recreate the previous form through the same wrapping method used with the reverse side of the material. By applying different graphics on each side of the material, different messages and functions can be programmed. In addition, through a careful selection of material and the right production methods, we can prevent or minimize damage to the material in the process of wrapping, unwrapping and re-wrapping. The result is a Hyperfunctional Form.

Study models HF08 and HF09 (refer to Fig. E) were attempts to create forms using this method. HF08 is a red packet (refer to Fig. F) that can be reused again after its contents are removed. By selecting a method of wrapping that utilizes folding and tucking to hold the form, we avoided the introduction of adhesives and thus, minimized damage during the unwrapping process. Different material and finishing were applied on both sides to suggest two possible outcomes when reused.

Sustainability has always been a key consideration when it comes to packaging. However, ‘going green’ is never simply about using earth-friendly materials or omitting packaging entirely. Our approach is then to consider the three lives of packaging – before, during and after use, and to maximize its efficiency and effectiveness in each phase. We therefore have to consciously subtract the idea that packaging equates to waste after the packaged product is removed.

Study model HF09 (refer to Fig. G) was a concept for a mooncake (traditional festive pastry) packaging. Instead of the usual way of packing small boxes of different pastries into a bigger box and then housing it in a paper bag, we designed a hand carry that presents the pastries and allows them to be distributed without the need for any further secondary packaging. Made from a single piece of base material and using the technique of wrapping and tucking, we achieve the goal of wrapping and unwrapping without damaging the material. Plying two different covering materials on each side of the hand carry, we are able to give it two different looks when rewrapped. Utilizing both sides of the base material allows the hand carry to Hyperfunction.

Creating forms through wrapping not only allows us to create two different looks for a form, but also allows us to creatively think of ways to retain a form without using permanent adhesives. This is where the rules of disconnecting connections come into play. When a form is not permanently connected, we can think of or imagine new ways of using it.