MADA Graduation Show / Project Galada - A litter capture barrier for waterways

Last night was the graduation show opening night. What a night to remember, So many emerging designers, artists and architects about to step into the real world. It makes for an electric atmosphere full of fresh ideas, energy and determination to create and shape the future. 

I must say that being apart of the Industrial design crew to graduate this year is such an amazing feeling. And I wouldn't have done it any other way. My fellow designers have done such a great job considering the tough year we all had to punch out so much work but at such a high quality level. And I think that comes down to the way we worked in studio and outside it to provide feedback and help to each other. Bouncing ideas of each other and really deconstructing the design intent, objectives and direction was something we all did. I think everyone has had some contribution or influence on each and everyone's project.

 So here's my project -

Insitu Barrier set-up

Project Galada is an adaptable litter capture barrier designed to trap and contain floating litter.
The increasing pollution in Melbourne’s water environments is drastically effecting the health and quality of its water.
 
Inspired by bike chains the modular pods link together and incorporate cylindrical planter pots that provide a buoyant eco-system for endemic aquatic plants to provide bio-filtration for the Yarra River. Capturing and collecting litter accumulating on water surfaces will help preserve and improve the health, biodiversity and quality of Melbourne’s waterways for the future.

Connector Link Versatility

The square toothed Connector link allows an angle to be chosen providing the direction for the next link. The barrier can be constructed to suit its surroundings.

Bio-filtration

Root stocks from the endemic aquatic sedges and rushes keep temperatures low, increase oxygen levels, reduce risk of algal blooms and soak up excess nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen which are then converted to growth. 


 

Litter Gate - Closed

 

Litter Gate - Open

The Yarra River is an estuary therefore downstream and upstream flows need to be accounted for. The flap is opened by downstream flow letting in litter. Upstream flow pushes the flap closed keeping litter inside the barrier.


It was also a great experience to have the project supported by Yarra Link - The Yarra Link Project is a non-profit group dedicated to renewal of indigenous vegetation. For more information about this initiative go to - https://www.yarra.link/

Massive thanks to especially Frank and Meg for their continual support throughout the year.


You can also find my project at :

http://artdes.monash.edu/gradshow2015/#!/design/industrial-design/rowan-turnham.html

Project Galada - Update

So not long to go now. One week and a half to go until everything is due. 

I've been busy preparing for the exhibition along with all the standard folio requirements, presentation content and general organisation of everything else. Actually I don't think I can call it a folio anymore. This time round its called a Critical Justification and entails everything that has been done to date. I'm immensely proud of it, it was sent off to printing last week and I should get it it by the end of this week. Its a large book, actually the largest I've ever done - 320 pages. 

The weekend of the 14th - 15th Novemeber is the Bump-In for the exhibition and also Monday. So I'm aiming to have everything done before then.  


 The opening night for the MADA Grad show is:

When: 19th November
Time: Open from 6pm
Where: Building G, Caulfield Campus - Monash University 

I'll post proper details in the coming week or so for the exhibition.


Until then here are some progress shots of exhibition prep and construction. Also imagery from the Yarra River installation will be put up soon!

Barrier Props getting their first coat of paint

Machining slot in circular base for the litter gate

Litter gate water flow paddle arm

Just put the chrome dome nuts onto the links!

 

Alberto Alessi in Melbourne

 

Alberto Alessi - New York Times (Photo - Steve Legato)

Today I'll be heading into the city to listen to CEO and President Alberto Alessi. He will be sharing his experiences about the design world and everything else that comes with being apart of such an iconic brand.

Alessi was founded in 1921 and started as a workshop for processing brass and nickel sheet metal. Such humble beginnings where the artisan had full control and an eye for detail. The transformation and evolution of Alessi in nearly a century has been huge. They now manage and facilitate design from all over the world but still have close ties with their traditions and cultural values. I look forward to hearing from Alberto about his perception on design and everything else that surrounds it. 

"A true design work must move people, convey emotions, bring back memories, surprise, and go against ..."  - Alberto Alessi

Public Lecture Details (Sold Out)
 

Alberto Alessi - Public Lecture 

12.30-2.00pm

Thursday November 5th 2015

Deakin Edge - Federation Square

Melbourne, Australia