Sometimes I Wonder, Timothy Archibald

In Timothy Archibald‘s case, photography was a way of connecting with his autistic son, Eli. Archibald says, “I knew he was tuned differently, and I needed to build a bridge, get inside his head, learning what made him tick.’’ He thinks autistic children always shut themselves up in their small world. To communicate with them seems like being in the foreign country (language barrier). So the image could be the best way to understand them. 

However, for blind person, visual language could not be an effective way to exchange. We usually find that there are blind tracks on the pavements of the major urban roads. And some designers could associate with their work and braille to communicate with blind person. In fact, accessible design could be an interesting case to study. Because people can choice different way to receive the information, such as: sight, touch, sound and so on. Graphic design can use visual imagery, materials, printing technology to achieve an exchange of ideas. Maybe we will explore more medium to communicate with people (including the special group) in design in the future.

In addition, Archibald considers that the power of having experiences is the sharing of the experience. It can help others navigate their own situations. I absolutely agree with him. I think we can design our work though our experience, which could kill distance between designers and audiences.