I decided to work with a hedgehog light. I chose a hedgehog specifically because of their detailed and sharp exterior. I thought it would be interesting to create a mold with their unique texture.
I developed the idea for this project from a mindfulness class last semester, where we read Stolen Focus by Johann Hari. In the book, Hari stresses the urgent need to protect our attention spans, highlighting how the digital world constantly distracts and diminishes our ability to focus. He explains how social media, notifications, and algorithm-driven content are deliberately designed to keep us addicted, prioritizing engagement over well-being. This manipulation, driven by large tech companies, gradually erodes our focus. He also explains how modern lifestyles contribute to sleep deprivation, further weakening our attention spans. To counteract this, he suggests solutions such as digital detoxes, deep work, and systemic changes to reclaim our ability to concentrate.
Although I initially chose the hedgehog at random, it ended up perfectly symbolizing the themes of Stolen Focus. In my project, the hedgehogs represent humans, in a sense hypnotized by the digital world’s distractions. Just as Hari describes how external forces hijack our attention, especially through social media, hedgehogs, despite their natural defenses, often fall into traps due to curiosity and poor eyesight. This reflects how even self-aware individuals can be manipulated.
The book also emphasizes the importance of uninterrupted rest, which modern life frequently disrupts. Hedgehogs, sleeping most of the day and hibernating to conserve energy, embody nature’s prioritization of rest for survival, just as humans require deep focus and proper sleep for optimal function. Additionally, hedgehogs move cautiously and deliberately, contrasting with modern society’s relentless push for multitasking. This serves as a reminder that slowing down and minimizing distractions is essential for maintaining control over our focus.