WE ARE ON BORROWED TIME
Cynthia Huiwen Tan
    We Are On Borrowed Time examines digital overconsumption through a critical lens, highlighting often-overlooked behaviors. With no limits on tools or form, it invites viewers to reflect on one central question: How much do we consume — and how much of us is being consumed?   Book Design, Social Research

    Advisors: Prin Limphongpand
              Hsien-Yin Ingrid Chou

    The publication is an experimental archive chronicling months of inquiry: from early sketches to evolving concepts to a conversation with Charles Broskoski, founder of are.na and author of the article that lit the first spark. Bound with zip ties, printed in full spreads, and sheathed in a clear cover, it wears its process on its sleeve.

    This project explores themes of endless social media scrolling, compulsive notification checking, and the addictive drive to accumulate digital content. Each issues circle around the question: how can design use the medium itself to raise awareness of these behaviors?
    When did we feel the need to start training our attention? Why can’t we grasp the things that are consuming our time? How much capacity do we possess in a world filled with abundance and distractions?
    The People Behind this WorkTo Ingrid and Prin, the best mentors I could have asked for. To Charles Broskoski, for your generosity in sharing your practice. To my thesis class (shoutout to Class C for the care!), and to my wonderful parents for their unwavering support.