TU VI TRAN








Norwegian-Vietnamese designer based in Oslo, Norway.




Works

About me

CV

Novice Forager 





YEAR
2024

TYPE OF PROJECT
University project

collaborator
Sopp- og nyttevekstforbundet

Tags
Local environment
Auto-ethnography
UX



We are living in the Anthropocene: a time defined by the profound impact of human activity on Earth’s ecosystems. Industrial food systems, urbanization, and technological progress have contributed to an increasing disconnect between people and the natural environments that sustain them. This separation not only distances us from the origins of our food, but can also be said to weaken our sense of responsibility and care for the ecosystems we depend on.

This project takes that disconnect as its starting point, exploring how foraging (an ancient practice of gathering food directly from the land) can be reintroduced as a tool for learning and reconnection.


















Background The project began as an exploration of learning, which evolved into a visual project aimed at making foraging more accessible and enjoyable for beginners. As part of this, I sought to create maps that were not only informative but also visually engaging, helping users navigate and connect with their local environment in a more playful way.

By positioning learning as the catalyst for interaction with the natural world, I hypothesized that foraging could strengthen our connection to our surroundings, and help us foster a greater recognition of nature’s capacity to nourish us.

















How could I explore ways to make maps and location visually playful and interesting?

















ProcessThrough conversations with foragers and participating in foraging myself, I used auto-ethnography as a method for developing ideas. Throughout the process, I live-scoped and held weekly presentations with my studio to gather feedback.

The project’s purpose became to encourage people to explore their surroundings, discover new recipes, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for sourcing food directly from nature.


















ResultsNovice Forager is a tool designed for beginners interested in foraging, helping them discover where they can forage, what they can find, and how to make delicious recipes from their foraged goods.

The platform offers an interactive and visual experience, guiding users through various foraging locations and edible plants using node-maps that connects users to relevant recipes. It also features a personal collection page, where users can track their foraging discoveries and build a personalized inventory of what they've found.











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