Hot seat

When the groups finished prototyping their first model, the objects and the groups were both placed on the 'hot seat' where they were surrounded by other students and professors. Following his plan, Zaid Hassan led feedback discussions after each prototype was presented, and ended with an appeal to brainstorm questions from the rest of the students to the group, we were allowed to take notes for reflection purposes, but were not permitted to react or respond directly.

The critiques were based on how the actions proposed could become possible in real life. The objects placed down on the table were expected to show a tangible experience but with a hint of innovation. Incited by the guest instructor, there was a latent will among everybody to predict every possible flaw of the prototype.

I have to admit, not all feedback was negative. However, part of the designers practice is to fail and it seems no one could escape this experience. When failing - partially or completely - designers are obliged to rethink their movements and try other paths in order to propose a new iteration for the object. Failure doesn't mean stagnation, but the opposite - movement.  

After the first round of critiques we were ready to start working on the adjustments for a polished and final prototype. The final version of the prototype was presented the next day at the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Gallery where it had a wide exposure to different audiences.

The exhibition marked the end of the three daylong workshops, which had organized groups by themes of actions. From that day on the Harlem Collaboration Projects was launched and in the following classes, groups were expected to develop their projects by building an agenda and work plan.