Relational design for more-than-human narratives

Authors

Margaret Rynning, Kristiania University of Applied SciencesFollow
Lene Utigard, Kristiania University of Applied SciencesFollow
Annette Briest Kriszat, Kristiania University of Applied SciencesFollow

Abstract

This workshop explores the intersection of relational design, storytelling, and more-than-human perspectives to challenge anthropocentric assumptions and foster deeper ecological awareness. Through speculative and sensory-based design interventions, participants will engage with local edible wild plants, highlighting their agency and cultural significance. By addressing the phenomenon of "plant blindness" and incorporating multimodal storytelling, the session aims to reframe human-nature relationships, cultivating empathy and care for non-human entities. Participants will co-create speculative narratives, experiment with sensory engagement, and develop ethical frameworks for more regenerative design practices. The workshop encourages designers and researchers to rethink their roles, embracing interdependence, sustainability, and justice in design.

Keywords

relational design, more-than-human design, posthumanism, speculative design, plant blindness, regenerativ design

DOI

https://doi.org/10.21606/nordes.2025.83

Citation

Rynning, M., Utigard, L.,and Kriszat, A.B.(2025) Relational design for more-than-human narratives, in Brandt, E., Markussen, T., Berglund, E., Julier, G., Linde, P. (eds.), Nordes 2025: Relational Design, 6-8 August, Oslo, Norway. https://doi.org/10.21606/nordes.2025.83

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License

Conference Track

Workshops