For this project, I’ve had a look into the vast internet sensation that is ASMR (Autonomous sensory meridian response). ASMR is an experience characterised by a tingling sensation, usually on the scalp that then moves down the back of the neck and upper spine. It has been compared with auditory-tactile synesthesia, being mostly focused on sound and touch. I have created a publication that can easily work inside this space while also commenting on it. Bringing attention to it, if you will. I looked into various ways we use our senses in response to various stimuli, from braille to social media. I wanted to take advantage of the physical book, and utalise its strengths to further my project. The physical space allows a reader to touch and feel the book, and to generate their own sounds through movement of the book. The printed book format also has less perceived distractions than the online space, with a clear end to the publication and a specific narrative, allowing readers to focus and relax.
With this in mind, I designed a publication with various paper types and textures, inviting the reader to scratch at, crinkle, tap, etc. I have cut the paper to be different sizes, pierced the pages, given the pages incisions, etc. as a way of encouraging interaction. For the front cover, I used a thin silky material for additional texture along with the sewed title. By doing this, we allow the reader to indulge in their AMSR, or learn about ASMR first hand.
In addition, as a way to properly represent the online community and to showcase the importance of sound, I have created various videos to display ASMR that go alongside the publication. They are filmed on a simple white background, the minimal space calming and clean, allowing the focus to be purely on the sounds and items that generate it. Editing wise, the focus is placed upon the sounds entirely, white noise removed/minimised.
Through this project I was really able to understand how people experience their ASMR and how it can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. I also really like how it can easily emphasise the benefits of the physical and digital space in different ways.
gracieabrams
vaporwave
stormborns
turnnoffyourmind