We need to show that something can be done

With their project titled “Impositio,” Marta Sowińska and Monika Żaczkiewicz won first prize in the 7R “Warehouse of Art: Young Art for the Planet” competition in the ergonomic seating category. Now they explain where they drew their inspiration, what ideas formed the basis of their project, and what guides them in their work.

What was the main inspiration for your competition entry?

Marta Sowińska: We were inspired by 7R’s aesthetic—simple shapes, an industrial look. The field in which the company operates already shapes a certain approach to aesthetics.

Monika Żaczkiewicz: We also placed great emphasis on ergonomics and sustainability, but above all on user comfort. The angles of the trapezoid were designed in accordance with ergonomic standards and selected to ensure comfort in every seating configuration. The most important aspect of the design is undoubtedly the ability to change one’s body position. Numerous studies show that this is the key ergonomic need. The “Impositio” system addresses various needs by allowing users to change how they rest and offers a variety of seat configurations.

Do nature and the natural environment play a significant role in your work?

M.Ż.: Of course . With every project, we consider sustainability and its impact on the environment. The Academy of Fine Arts places great emphasis on this. However, it poses a challenge during the production phase. As designers, we can suggest specific materials or technologies that may be more environmentally friendly. The decision to use them, however, rests with the manufacturer. Moreover, sustainability does not always go hand in hand with durability or user comfort.

M.S.: There are also additional costs involved in implementing technology that makes production more environmentally friendly and products more durable. Artists and designers can help raise environmental awareness by designing innovative products and demonstrating that change is possible.

What projects are you currently working on? What kind of design work do you enjoy the most?

M.S.: We are currently working on packaging and label designs. In the future, I would like to combine the knowledge I’ve gained from designing seating and packaging with biotechnology. I’m coming to realize that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to bring about real change with the technology we currently have at our disposal. Only technologies still in development—and their adaptation in product design—can change this situation.

M.Ż.: Yes , we need to show that it can be done. If new technologies become widely adopted, they don’t have to be any more expensive than those currently in use.

About the Warehouse of Art Competition

The 7R competition, “Warehouse of Art: Young Art for the Planet,” was open to students and graduates of the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw. Its theme was “Technology. Ecology. Human. Coexistence.” The competition task was to create an eco-themed applied art project in one of three categories: an ergonomic seat, a mural for a fire hydrant, and an eco-friendly 7R gadget. A total of 26 entries were submitted to the competition. The winners’ works are available at7rwarehouseofart.pl.