Wilma Schulz

Blau – alcohol leaves traces

Questioning Our Approach to Alcohol Through Critical Design.

This project critically examines the role of alcohol in society. As a drug, alcohol causes damage from the very first drop, with significant consequences for health and social environments. Despite this, it is often normalized and trivialized.  What if the traces of alcohol were visible? My project takes the concept of being „blue“ (a german term for being drunk) literally, using the color as a visual disruption.  A modified wine glass gradually spills its content, emphasizing that even the first drop of alcohol leaves a lasting mark. Additionally, a video showcases everyday consumption scenarios, with personal comments emphasizing the pervasive presence of alcohol in our society. The design process highlighted the importance of delivering a clear message without overloading it, while also breaking conventions boldly. Balancing provocative design with clarity proved to be the greatest challenge. This project uses design to provoke, encourage honest debate and to portray alcohol in a realistic way.