Research Abstract

Machine Aesthetics: Revaluing and Reinterpreting the Manufacturing Process of the Assembly Line

The narrative foundation of this dissertation derives from an investigation of how the assembly line manufacturing system has led to the social effects of over-production and consumption. It provides a rationale for a series of small-scale kinetic objects that I have created using gold and silversmithing techniques. These objects reference the historical progression of the development of machinery technology used to build a food assembly line, and the mechanical tasks necessary in the manufacture of food products. My objects are designed to invite human participation as their purpose is to raise awareness of issues related to what I perceive as the shortcomings of a fully automated manufacturing system. Their design and construction are based on knowledge of the toy aesthetic with its capacity for encouraging learning through play. To define reasons for the loss of human knowledge and hands-on experience in the manufacturing process, I investigate the historical context and practices of Fordism to show how the innovation of a fully mechanised manufacturing process underlies the drive towards the excess production and consumption of goods such as food. Throughout this research, while my aim is to critique the effects of the assembly line method, I also discuss and demonstrate certain benefits of Fordism such as the concept of standardisation which ensures the uniformity of goods produced in mass quantities. I show how I draw on this to develop my own method of standardising the components I use in my objects and how I monitor their quality. My utilisation of gold and silversmithing methods in assembling the works in my project highlights the value of hands-on experience. This project aims to establish new knowledge about how kinetic objects can be used as playful, engaging devices to enhance awareness of contemporary issues related to the assembly line manufacturing process.

Bio

Yi Jen Chu completed a PhD of Fine Art, Gold and Silversmithing at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Melbourne, Australia (2022). Her works have been exhibited internationally throughout Europe, Asia and Australia. She was awarded the Diana Morgan Postgraduate and Honours Gold and Silversmithing prize in 2020.

chuyijen19922@gmail.com
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