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Metagen
Giulia Polticchia
Due to current worldwide plastic production persisting at such an alarming rate, a society in the near future might have to rely upon new technologies to minimise damages to the environment and to people's health. Giulia Polticchia's speculative project explores a future where humanity resorts to genetical engineering as a solution against plastic pollution. Meet METAGEN, the company/laboratory that develops organisms to fulfil specific functions. Based on existing species of insects and bacteria that can digest plastic, Metagen genetically engineered two organisms: a new species of worm designed to consume plastic waste and a new species of bacteria designed to consume nano plastics within the body.
The project proposes a neutral view of a possible future based on our present, addressing themes of plastic pollution, waste management and the employment of genetically modified organisms as a means to an end. Metagen provides a visual support for the viewer to experience and hence reflect upon, the kind of future they wish to see realised.
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Giulia Polticchia
Communication designer by day, local cryptid by night.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
Still being creative, hopefully through a job that feels fulfilling.
What is a good design for you?
Powerful and thrilling, something that catches your eye for a good reason.
What was the most challenging experience during your studies?
Getting comfortable with failure and learning from it.
Who or what inspires you?
Beauty in all its myriad of apparitions!
How do you approach a new project?
Research, sketching and brainstorming. I also try to keep an open mind and to not get too attached to any idea straight away.
What advice would you give to students who just started studying in your programme?
Try new things, challenge yourself and keep your personal portfolio in mind when you approach new uni projects.
Have you changed during your studies? How?
Yes, in so many ways. I've learnt so much and acquired many new skills, I also feel like in these three years I slowly started to develop my own aesthetic sensibility and identity as a designer. Most importantly, I didn't know what I wanted from life when I started university. Now I know that design is my path and that I want to make a career out of it, and I'm going to give it my best shot.
Why did you choose to study in your programme?
I wanted to study something creative, it was a random choice that ended up suiting me like a glove.
What are you not going to miss in your studies?
Writing papers.
How are you going to celebrate your graduation?
Celebrating with friends and family, maybe sacrificing a couple babies, we'll see :)
