Thesis
Exploring modularity across mediums: a research-through-design study of modularity, materiality and cultural continuity
University of Iowa
Master of Fine Arts (MFA), University of Iowa
Spring 2026
DOI: 10.25820/etd.008329
Abstract
This thesis investigates modularity as a design strategy using a research-through-design methodology, exploring how shared geometric principles generate different outcomes when translated across various materials, techniques, functions and cultural contexts. The research also examines the relationship between form, function, materiality, and heritage through the development of two modular systems: a textile-based modular pillow and a wooden modular shelving unit, where both projects originate from the same geometric logic, but differ in scale, material behavior, fabrication processes, and modes of interaction.
Through sketching, prototyping, material experimentation, and digital fabrication, the research also investigates how soft and hard materials can influence structural performance, modularity, and user experience, it also emphasizes how fabrication techniques and material constraints can shape the design outcomes.
Finally, the project demonstrates how modular systems can remain adaptable, structurally sound, and culturally resonant within contemporary design contexts when working across multiple mediums.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Exploring modularity across mediums: a research-through-design study of modularity, materiality and cultural continuity
- Creators
- Tagwa Mohamedani
- Contributors
- Monica Correia (Advisor)Jeremy Swanston (Committee Member)Lonna Huisingh (Committee Member)Vakhtangi Darjania (Committee Member)
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA), University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Art (Three-Dimensional Design)
- Date degree season
- Spring 2026
- DOI
- 10.25820/etd.008329
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- vii, 26 pages
- Copyright
- Copyright 2026 Tagwa Mohamedani
- Language
- English
- Date submitted
- 04/28/2026
- Description illustrations
- illustrations
- Description bibliographic
- Includes bibliographical references (page 25).
- Public Abstract (ETD)
This project explores modular design in an attempt to understand how shared geometric forms can take on different identities when translated across different materials, techniques, and cultural contexts. Through a research-through-design approach, the research also investigates how modular systems behave when realized in both soft and hard materials, and how craft, architecture, and heritage can inform contemporary design practice.
Two modular objects were developed in parallel: a soft, textile-based modular pillow and a hard, structural modular shelving system. Both projects originate from the same geometric logic, yet they differ in scale, materiality, construction methods, and modes of interaction. By designing across these contrasting mediums - textiles and wood - the research examines how material behavior, fabrication techniques, and user interaction shape form, function, and meaning while also connecting cultural heritage by the integration of geometry, material exploration, and craft knowledge, to create contemporary designs with cultural meaning and emotional resonance.
- Academic Unit
- School of Art, Art History, and Design
- Record Identifier
- 9985176972902771
Metrics
1 Record Views