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OUR ⎯⎯⎯⎯
MISSION
Hope and connectivity
We aim to increase positive thought by encouraging you to reflect on what makes you happy.
We are collecting submissions from all over the world, and showcasing them in an explorative digital experience.
We ask you to share any submissions that speak to you, and help spread the love during this time of uncertainty.
We are Grow.
We created Grow to combat isolation and strengthen positive thought processes by encouraging users to reflect on themselves.
46% of Americans report feeling alone
Loneliness is growing in our seemingly ultra-connected world. This is a subjective experience rooted in our biological need to seek collaboration and connection. Researchers say that this feeling has been linked to several health issues and even early death.
Negative attitudes can decrease lifespan
Poorly managed negative emotions can lead to a slew of health conditions, like feelings of helplessness, and chronic stress. Consciously practicing positive thought can strengthen energy, motivation, and healthy thought processes.
The Solution
Our solution was to create a life-size interactive tree installation, in hopes that users would submit positive thoughts to not only grow the beauty of the vibrant garden, but to grow themselves.
Changing the vision
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, our exhibition of our project was cancelled. Instead of letting our work go to waste, we decided to capitalize on what was already built, and pivot to an online web experience to safely bring people positivity when they need it most.
Installation
Personal Reflection
Participants could choose from one of four iPad stations located throughout the room, and six predetermined prompts. After writing their response, it would anonymously be submitted to the interactive tree centerpiece.
Exploration and Curiosity
The room centerpiece would be a tree spanning from floor to ceiling. Various leaves on the tree installation would be illuminated with QR codes to indicate that they held a positive thought submitted from another. Below is our first tree proof of concept exploring various bark/vine textures.
Inspiration from Others
Participants could then scan the illuminated leaves with their phone, and save the thought if they resonated with it. Save up to 5 thoughts, and generate a personalized inspirational graphic to share with friends and family on social media, or save as a wallpaper for a later date.
Online Experience
Personal Reflection
Because most of submission application was already developed, translating it to an online web experience allowed us to keep the collaborative component of our project that was crucial to reinforcing positive thoughts within our users.
Exploration and Curiosity
Removing the installation meant imagining a new digital experience that focused on exploration, and narrative. We kept what tree elements we could, like the interactive leaves, while subtly alluding to others, like the background wood textures. We also introduced elements that were made impossible by a physical installation, such as motion.
Inspiration from Others
Users are still able to explore the submissions from others by interacting with leaves floating across the screen. Still wanting to incorporate the spreading of positivity, we implemented social media links that allow users to share a specific thought with friends and family.
You can view our finished experience here.
Meet the Team
Though Grow had to undergo a few unexpected pivots, this project unified us through passion and hope during a time of uncertainty. We hope it will do the same for you.
WE WANT ⎯⎯⎯⎯
TO THANK
Our Professors
For their knowledge, patience, and passion throughout these collegiate years. We apologize for the gray hairs that we have undoubtably caused you, but we would not be where we are without your dedication and hardwork.
New Media
For the community, connections, and opportunities that this program provides. None of this would be possible without the knowledge and skills we have gained from years of classes, and from each other.
And You
For the support and participation in our endeavors. Whether you're just here to read our story or explore our creation, we thank you for taking the time to listen to us. We hope this brings you some hope.