Synopsis

We live in an age where information has become a commodity, and our ability to generate and acquire data has outspread our ability to make sense of it. Traditional systems of visual organisation and display are fast becoming obsolete, consequently we are requiring new approaches of visualisation and lateral thinking to compliment the burgeoning information age. This is where information design undertakes an important task of organising, sorting and displaying information in an efficient way so as to provide insight, knowledge, and understanding.

The project “Painting by Numbers” evolved from the desire to gain a more thorough knowledge of Auckland, it’s occupants, and their relationship with wider issues of urban growth and community. It was pertinent to this project that the central focus consistently remained on new and alternative approaches of representation. Only then it is possible to create fresh perspectives that have previously been unseen, as well as reaffirming or contradicting any existing stereotypes of certain areas and their inhabitants.

The study concentrated on the three suburbs of Kingsland, Karangahape Road and Takapuna. These three were chosen since they were relatively spread out, but also from having spent alot of time in each area they were of a particular interest personally. The study survey was conducted on foot, with approximately 120 people from each area participating. By taking the survey from the workers of each suburb rather than shoppers or visitors, a more accurate and consistent view of an area is portrayed.

The raw information collected for this study was in itself not inherently useful. It is not until it is translated, categorised and visualised that we then begin to see underlying patterns and idiosyncrasies of each individual area, to which we can facilitate sensible comparisons and conclusions.