21.05.2025 5PM
As part of ‘post-digital ornament’ research cluster activities, we have invited Dr Mala Siamptani to The Glasgow School of Art to reflect on ideas of ‘digital ornament’ in recent practice research. Dr Siamptani’s work highlights similar themes to our own in relation to collaborations (or collisions?) between digital and traditional ways of making in craft contexts, and the potential for a rich dialogue around the interpretative qualities of designed ornament created through new technological forms and methods. In a series of projects, including ‘AR cosmic balls’, ‘bio-engaging’, ‘structural decay’, and ‘bilateral symmetry’, alongside many others, this work demonstrates an exciting and innovate range of approaches to making now and in the future. Fusing together natural and artificial materials, individual and cultural histories, languages of design and making, ‘digital ornament’ outlines an inventive vocabulary to describe, analyse, and communicate meanings of jewellery objects generated by novel production methods.
BIOGRAPHY
Dr. Mala Siamptani is a design practitioner and researcher whose work explores the intersection of design, creativity, and digital technology through the lens of jewellery. Based in East London, she integrates studio practice with academic research, focusing on material innovation and the fusion of traditional craft with digital tools. Her work has been widely exhibited, and she actively contributes to the academic field through publishing and international conferences. Alongside her research, Mala is dedicated to teaching and community-building, fostering collaboration and innovation within creative education.