Animal Code – Shanghai's Communication System in 2100
Speculative Design Project by:
Fabiana Caria, Jaelynn Jurga, Van Nguyen, "Sophie" Yuchen Su
Advisors Concept & Prototyping:
Prof. Henrik Rieß, Felix Müller, M.A.
Advisors Graphic Design:
Anc Ciechanowicz, M.A., Illia Boyko, B.A.
Speculative Future Scenario:
What if the only uncensorable broadcast system in 2100 Shanghai was its urban wildlife?
'Animal Code' describes the world of Shanghai in 2100, where climate flooding, expanding surveillance, and authoritarian governance have transformed the city's ecological and social structures.
The project investigates how communication might evolve when public speech is no longer considered safe. Drawing on Chinese mythology, urban ecology, animal behaviour, and contemporary resistance movements, it proposes a symbolic communication system in which abundant invasive animal species are assigned specific social functions, including gathering, warning, escape, alert, and broadcasting.
The project shows 2 souvenirs, both referring to each other.
Souvenir #1 is the 'Animal Code'. The handy field manual introduces the symbolic system through species profiles, historical references, sign language, and practical applications. In 2100, it tells Shanghai's citizens how to navigate troubles in the metropolis.
Souvenir #2 is 'Hidden Bird' (隐鸟), a lantern inspired by the Reed Parrotbill that functions as a hidden anti-propaganda object. While appearing as an ordinary lantern in public space, it reveals concealed messages only through close interaction.
Together, the two artifacts examine how cultural symbols and everyday objects may support alternative forms of communication and collective resistance under conditions of environmental and political uncertainty.
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