Thesis-Project | AEON

“Death is inevitable, and something so tangible, so absolute, that plays an important role in human life and yet is so closed off. We are far from being prepared for death. Dying has been institutionalised and death and grief have been excluded from everyday life and community. This has led to a lack of familiarity not only with death but also with the grief that follows. Consequently we don’t know how to talk about it and how to give or ask for support. Moreover, what used to be the responsibility of relatives, namely care, charity and support, has become a costly field of experts and specialists. Today, we are confronted with a multitude of options and services when it comes to death and dying. Nevertheless, death is a comprehensive topic that raises many questions and where many factors can be taken into account.

Key interviews

» Dr Gabriele Schnapper, (gynaecologist and palliative doctor), Brixen Hospital.
» Karin Thaler, (coordinator of the Caritas Hospice Service).
» Dr. Clara Astner, (psychologist), Brixen Hospital.
» 1 palliative patient who has died in the meantime.

Thoughts

As already mentioned in the objectives of the project, the product is intended to create a positive, playful and yet sensitive approach to the subject of death. The lives of those who have passed away are to be remembered and honoured. The product should create a simple and personal insight into the life of the deceased and thus give the “heir” a clearer impression of who the person was, how they lived, what their interests and ideas were. It was important to me to give “normal” people the opportunity to tell their story without having to have led a special life or be someone famous. Through this product, I want to create a different kind of heritage that focuses on the “being” and the individuality of the user rather than on the “doing”. This is to encourage the user to reflect on the value of his/her life and the time they have left to document their own life. The idea that our legacy is not entirely determined by our physical existence in the “here and now” is helpful and worth exploring.