Hai An 3WOD Design Competition

<p dir="ltr">Research Background </p><p dir="ltr">This research is an example of creative practice as research, where engaging with the local design ecosystem serves as the foundation for a design inquiry. The "Hải An" sculptural hook embodies a research process that privileges material exploration and emotional depth. The project investigates how a functional object can transcend its utility to become a narrative artifact, a "living artwork" that holds memories and personal histories. The use of ash wood and meticulous craftsmanship are not merely aesthetic choices, but a means of generating new knowledge about the relationship between form, function, and emotional resonance in design. The work's development from different coasts to a common tide echoes the collaborative nature of the research process itself. </p><p dir="ltr">Research Contribution </p><p dir="ltr">During the development of "Hải An," our research extended beyond the studio to crucial industry engagement. We established important connections with local manufacturers in Ho Chi Minh City, including specialists in EDM cutting, CNC machining, steel, and wood supply. This provided invaluable insights into small-scale and bespoke manufacturing processes. As a competition finalist, we also collaborated with the large-scale factory, Thanh Tanh, to refine the final prototype. This partnership provided a deep understanding of mass production chains in HCMC, offering practical knowledge that enriched our research. These connections, particularly from our collaboration with Thanh Tanh, have established a significant link to RMIT Vietnam, which can support future student work and academic collaboration.</p><p dir="ltr">Research Significance </p><p dir="ltr">Organized by Gallery Medium and sponsored by influential stakeholders like Elle Decor Vietnam, Maison & Objects Paris, Laita Design, and Tân Thành Furniture, the project provided a unique platform for engagement. The project's success establishes fruitful connections with major players in the local design industry and serves as a medium to explore the possibilities of local materials and manufacturing capabilities. This engagement opens doors for future collaborations, student opportunities, and ongoing research exploration, solidifying the project's impact beyond the final artifact. The significance of this project lies in its role as a bridge between emerging design and the established creative and manufacturing ecosystems in Ho Chi Minh City.</p>