Autopoietry
Illustration, Research
2018
This project applies the steps of a root canal procedure to the story of a friendship, essentially “performing a root canal” on the relationship. The idea behind this series stemmed from a semester-long design research project that started with an interest in feedback loops and autopoietic systems capable of maintaining and reproducing themselves. Tangible instances of these systems, such as the regenerative nature of a tooth’s interior, are paired with more impalpable feedback loops, such as the connection between one’s physical and mental health and the symbiotic relationship between a person and their environment.
Through a combination of creative writing, scientific artifacts, and layered visuals, these nested and looping relationships are explored within the structured steps of a root canal procedure. The resulting metaphorical removal of necrosis is an attempt at healing a friendship that was impacted by two individuals navigating harmful connections between mind, body and environment.
Credits
Micaela McCabe: Collaboration
Recognition
