The Neo Ebreeq: Invigorating Tradition within a Contemporary Context through Redesign

Khoury, Tarek Emile (2020) The Neo Ebreeq: Invigorating Tradition within a Contemporary Context through Redesign. Doctoral thesis (PhD), Manchester Metropolitan University.

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Abstract

The ebreeq is a traditional Lebanese water vessel, an iconic cultural artefact which is becoming obsolete as result of modernization. The intent of this research is to use motion design and 3D digital technologies to invigorate the traditional ebreeq and revive its sustainability in today’s contemporary society. The objective of redesigning the ebreeq focuses on enhancing its ergonomics and visual characteristics, while retaining its identity; this is in addition to evolving the semiotic meaning of the ebreeq by addressing the static past and present moments of interaction with the vessel. This thesis examines the major design principles of the ebreeq; hence, other visually similar and re-designed water vessels are studied as well. It also discusses the literature related to motion design and relevant 3D projects and explores the divergent realms of digital technologies and traditional craft. This study indicates how motion design generates new forms through a range of techniques which reveal the invisible – but essential – moments of transformation during one’s interaction with the ebreeq while using it. In other words – following Sennett’s “domain shift” – the principles of motion design are transferred into product design to amalgamate gestural moments into one form: the neo ebreeq in its final outcome. My methodology relates various practice-based examinations and explores crafting a clay ebreeq alongside utilizing motion design and digital technologies to understand these varying techniques of making. The core value of the traditional egg-shaped vessel is emphasized in the new design which is developed based on the captured motion of water within the dynamic space of the neo ebreeq. The redesign of the traditional ebreeq enhances its container, base, spout and neck and maintains the use of intelligent material. This study offers the sensibility of seeing through sequences, while related research determines the link between the past, the present and the future. The interconnection between motion design and locomotion, time-based semiotics, Futurism and Post-structuralism establish a conceptual framework as motion design connects these theoretical components within the practical applications of 3D technology, 3D animation, modelling and rendering. iii Finally, this project introduces an initiative to invigorate similar culturally significant objects which are becoming endangered artefacts. It bridges tradition with modernity, combines motion design with product design and merges digital and traditional techniques of making. Despite the fact that motion design has not been a common practice in reinvigorating cultural objects, it remains a vital factor resulting in unconventional outcomes in redesigning the ebreeq.