Abstract

My research project focused on the dangers of overconsumption, specifically blind boxes. Through an analysis of Eastern and Western blind box markets, psychological studies, and consumer data, this project explores how surprise-based collectibles increasingly resemble gambling rather than casual hobby culture. Using visualizations created through tools such as Google Sheets, Flourish, and Canva, I examined demographic trends, emotional marketing strategies, and the behavioural loops that keep consumers—especially Gen Z—continually purchasing. By tracing the rise of companies like Pop Mart and MGA Entertainment, the project illustrates how nostalgia, uncertainty, and reward anticipation drive compulsive buying patterns. Ultimately, this research argues that blind boxes reveal a broader cultural shift toward emotional spending and digitally amplified consumption, raising important questions about financial risk, mental well-being, and how “innocent” hobbies can mask addictive tendencies.

Other articles

"Mapping Belonging: An Intersectional Critique of *Islands in the North"

Abstract

Islands in the North, a digital exhibit by Dr. Marlene Gaynair, remaps Toronto through the histories of Black Caribbean communities. This essay analyzes the project using Kimberlé Crenshaw’s theory of intersectionality, exploring how GIS mapping, archival storytelling, and digital design work together to reconstruct marginalized histories. Through a blend of critical analysis and personal reflection, the piece examines how digital creativity becomes a form of memory work and cultural preservation.

Author(s)
Shekhar Rana

Tags
History & Memory Data & Mapping Community & Environment Identity & Personal Experience Articles & Essays
Published: Wed 19 November 2025

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"I-Am-Data"

Abstract

I-am-Data is a digitized self-portrait collage displayed on an HTML-based page. This piece explores identity and expression through various levels of data collection, from self-tracking to passive surveillance. Reflecting on the relationship between the online self and the platforms, interfaces, and applications that help shape it, I-Am-Data critiques methods used to categorize and monitor users. By visualizing these dynamics, this self-portrait questions the sense of self when defined by data.

Author(s)
Isabelle Viray

Issue
Issue 3
Tags
Identity & Personal Experience Power & Surveillance Data & Mapping Capitalism Art & Image-Based Articles & Essays
Published: Mon 21 April 2025

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"The Anatomy of a Corset"

Abstract

This is my "The Anatomy of a Corset" Project. I created this project as an assignment for class (CTS 2010) in my second year; we had to select a technology and create a series of projects surrounding the technology. One of the assignments was to create a map about an aspect of the technology. My technology was corsets, and I broke down each material that goes into creating one, mapping where each material would have been made.

Author(s)
Sara Jandrew

Issue
Issue 3
Tags
Data & Mapping History & Memory Design & Material Culture Interactive
Published: Tue 28 February 2023

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Other articles

"Mapping Belonging: An Intersectional Critique of *Islands in the North"

"I-Am-Data"

"The Anatomy of a Corset"

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