The research project ‘Everyday Archaeology’ is an effort to help individuals reflect on the problematic of conspicuous consumption and the disposable nature of material culture.

The pursuit of what is material, whether the novelty of fashion or technological function, is controlled by a belief in the spiritual fulfillment objects provide.
However, what happens when a typological system is created that asks us to analyze our ‘relationship’ with disposable objects?
Could the ‘fetish’ of materialistic culture of today be replaced by a new perception, leading to a re-evaluation of the fulfillment through consumption in our lives?

This typology created was based upon archeological methodology of analyzing artifacts, considering both 'artifacts' one throws away, and 'artifacts' one finds that have been thrown away. Everyday Archeaology bases itself upon ethics of design, questioning how Communication Design can be essencial to lead individuals to social change.

2008/ MA research project at Chelsea College of Art&Design London

Joana Casaca Lemos/ www.joanacasacalemos.com