Due after midsem exams, but stay on the lookout for examples and take photos when you see one.
Data doesn’t always need to be collected and processed to be seen—it often visualises itself in the physical world. By observing our surroundings, we can uncover naturally occurring data visualisations that tell stories of use, behavior, and change over time.
Instructions
Find and photograph a self-visualising system—a physical phenomenon that reveals patterns of human activity, environmental forces, or time. Consider examples such as:
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The cross-section of a tree trunk, where rings indicate age and climate patterns.
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Worn-out paths in grass or dirt, showing the most frequently traveled routes.
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The smooth, shiny surfaces of frequently touched statues, door handles, or stair railings.
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Residue, rust, or discoloration on walls or floors where water consistently flows.
Think about how these patterns naturally encode information. What behaviors or forces led to these marks? What story does the visualization tell?
Submission format
Submit a Google Doc in This Folder containing:
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At least one photo (more if you find multiple examples) of a self-visualising system in your environment.
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A 250+ word essay answering the following questions:
- What is the subject of your photo?
- What information does this visualization reveal?
- What's the story that it tells? How do human behavior or natural forces contribute to this pattern?
- How might this type of visualization inspire digital or interactive data visualisation?
References
What if data visualized itself? - Towards Data Science
50 Self Visualising Information ideas - heavy metal fashion, soil texture, planting hydrangeas