Heartfelt - The possibilities for physical objects to act as mediators in emotional exchange and implications for the design process

This paper draws on practice centred research conducted within the field of contemporary jewellery. Its aim is to understand the process and dynamics by which objects create meaning, in particular that of an emotional nature. The key objective is to propose methods for researching this critical field of enquiry. The research itself focuses on the commissioning process which as evidence shows is increasingly relevant as a means of consumption. The research considers the micro dynamics of a situation through which a client's needs are communicated. The research draws on cultural theory and design to develop an appropriate hybrid conceptual model. Significant elements in the interpretation and identification of emotional dimensions are identified and observed. The analysis of the data questioned the relationship between the communication process and the interpretation of an object. The hybrid conceptual model used is summarised in the paper. There then follows an explanation of a method for analysing the communicative role of objects, which focuses specifically on the commissioning process. This research is directly relevant to the fields of the applied arts and design. However it is also relevant to other industries and could contribute to the meaningful development of mass customisation. Key words: Jewellery, Design, Commission, Emotion, Mediation